Investigating into the Causes of Electrical Fire Outbreak in Residential Buildings in Kumasi Metropolis

ABSTRACT

The increasing rate of electrical fires in the Kumasi Metropolis has become a matter of worry to many residents. Residential fires in Kumasi constitute the highest incidence of fire outbreaks recorded. In an attempt to address the alarming rate of fire outbreaks in Ghana, the Fire Precaution (Premises) Regulation (2003) LI 1725 was passed to enable Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to carry out inspection of proposed and existing premises, review building plan with regard to fire safety and issuance of fire certificate. However, the law is enforced only on public buildings like hotels, schools and commercial buildings whereas private domestic residential buildings are neglected. This has led to the increasing rate of fire outbreaks in the Kumasi Metropolis resulting in loss of lives and property worth thousands of cedis. It is on this background that this research was conducted to investigate the causes of residential fire outbreaks. The information used for the research was gathered through questionnaires. The respondents were one hundred and eighty (180). This consists of Landlords, renters, porters, wife/husband of Landlord and children of the Landlord. Likert scales of measurement were used for the analysis of the data gathered. The result of the study revealed that the lack of knowledge and information about basic use of electricity and regulations are contributing factors in starting residential fires. As a result of the findings of the research, it is recommended that qualified electrician approved by the energy commission should be contacted to wire homes. Residential wiring should also be tested and users should be educated in order for them to be able to detect electrical faults early. Early detection will help stop fires before they start.