Firefighters avert disaster after fuel tanker overturns in Volta Region

Firefighters from the Anfoega and Kpando Fire Stations have averted a potential explosion after a fuel tanker overturned on the Nyangbo–Tafi Mador road in the Volta Region.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, January 13, when the tanker, travelling from Accra to Yendi, overturned and spilt fuel onto the roadway, creating a serious fire hazard.

According to a statement posted on Facebook by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), a distress call was received at 0605 hours, prompting an immediate response from firefighters led by DO III Benjamin Yao Yaotse, with support from the Volta Regional GNFS towing truck.

On arrival at the scene, the firefighters quickly secured the area, shut down the tanker’s engine and applied firefighting foam to contain the spilt fuel and prevent ignition. Their swift and coordinated action, the service said, prevented a possible explosion and ensured the safety of motorists and nearby communities.

The driver of the tanker sustained minor injuries and was transported to the Margaret Marquat Hospital in Kpando for medical treatment. No fatalities were recorded.

The overturned tanker was later recovered, the area declared safe, and traffic on the stretch restored after the completion of the emergency operations.

The GNFS commended the professionalism and teamwork of its personnel and reiterated the need for prompt reporting of emergencies and strict adherence to road safety measures, particularly by vehicles transporting hazardous materials.