GIS-Based Emergency Fire Response for Minimization of Fire Outbreaks in the Greater Accra Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

The study report assessed the geographic distribution of existing fire stations in the Accra Metropolitan Area (AMA). It further sought to evaluate the spatial coverage for each fire station under predefined sustainable response times. Information on fire stations and incidents, access to sources of water and settlements were purposively obtained and visualized in Arc Map 10.6 with the multiple buffer tools. GIS web application was developed to integrate reporters and fire stations within the AMA for an efficient and effective response to emergency cases related to fire outbreaks. Results suggest that GIS application is essential to fire management as it significantly improved response time to 15 minutes, reducing causalities as well as damaged properties if the strategy is adopted.  Results proved a response time of 15 minutes is feasible in the study area if the proposed strategy is adopted. The study presents this management system as one that could be easily be deployed to other stations across the country. The platform provides details on the location, the magnitude of the fire incident among other relevant details. This study would regulate and minimize risks associated with fire outbreaks which are often accompanied by both direct and indirect consequences and could facilitate early reporting using mobile collection devices.