The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has reiterated its concerns over the persistent issue of prank calls to its emergency lines, warning that such calls continue to jeopardize timely responses to real emergencies.
ADO I Derrick Elorm Adzokpa from the GNFS Public Relations Department said while there has been a notable decline in prank calls this year, the problem remains a significant threat.
“The prank calls are killing us,” Adzokpa lamented, noting the toll that hoax emergencies place on personnel and logistics.
He disclosed that in the first quarter of 2025, prank calls dropped by 31.52% compared to the same period in 2024—progress he attributed to intensified public education and growing awareness of the life-threatening consequences of such behavior.
“It shows that people are beginning to understand the implications of prank calls and how they can block others in real distress from getting help,” he said.
Adzokpa explained that prank calls could congest the emergency system, sometimes preventing genuine callers from reaching emergency responders.
“When you call 112 or 192 and it doesn’t go through, someone else may be on the line—and that could very well be a prank call,” he warned.
To address the issue, the GNFS is encouraging the public to use alternative emergency contact numbers when the main lines are engaged. The Service has provided the following additional hotlines: 0302772446 and 0299340383.
Adzokpa emphasized the importance of responsible use of emergency services and urged citizens to report anyone found deliberately misusing the system. “Even one prank call can cost a life,” he said.
The GNFS continues its campaign to sensitize the public on the dangers of emergency line abuse and is calling on all Ghanaians to help protect the integrity of life-saving services.
