
In an outrageous revelation, it has come to light that Ghana’s firefighters are fighting life-threatening infernos without any insurance coverage, putting their lives at unimaginable risk.
The shocking disclosure was made by a fire officer speaking to The Hawk on the condition of strict anonymity. He exposed the grim reality that firefighters across the country have no backup protection when they put their lives on the line.
“We don’t have any insurance covering what we do. We have to be careful not to sustain injuries because when it happens, we’re on our own. We end up having to treat ourselves without any support,” the officer said, revealing the perilous conditions under which they work.
For many in the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), battling fire is a life-or-death job. Yet, despite the grave dangers, firefighters are left completely vulnerable to accidents and injuries on the job, without a safety net of insurance or compensation.
The officer, who described the situation as “beyond frustrating,” explained that private insurance schemes are the only option available, but even those come at the expense of the firefighters’ already stretched salaries.
“Our bosses aren’t pushing for government-backed insurance for us. Instead, they are forcing us to sign up for private insurance policies, and it’s eating into our small salaries,” the firefighter revealed.
Firefighters, among the most brave and selfless public servants, are often the first responders in life-threatening situations, from raging fires in crowded markets to industrial explosions. But in a system of neglect, these workers are left to fend for themselves, with no backup when things go wrong.
According to insiders, many officers have been seriously injured on the job but have been left without any governmental assistance or adequate coverage for medical expenses.
“Some colleagues have been severely injured and declared unfit for service, but there is no form of compensation or insurance. They’re left to suffer,” one officer disclosed, highlighting the deep-rooted failure within the Ministry of Interior.
The urgent need for insurance and proper compensation for these life-risking workers has never been clearer. As Ghana grapples with an increasing number of fire outbreaks, from deadly residential fires to industrial accidents, it is high time the government addresses this scandal.
Without a formal insurance scheme, morale will continue to plummet, and fire service personnel will remain reluctant to take the necessary risks.
The government must act immediately to provide a comprehensive insurance package for these unsung heroes. Their job requires them to put their lives on the line—they should not have to do so with nothing but their courage to shield them.
The government’s failure to act is not only unjust but downright reckless. It is time for urgent reforms to protect those who risk everything for the safety of others. Firefighters deserve more than empty promises and inexcusable neglect. It’s time to give them the protection they so desperately need!