There’s no health insurance for firefighters – Alex King Nartey

A member of the Public Relations Department of the Ghana National Fire Service, Alex King Nartey has disclosed that firefighters are not secured with health insurance packages for injuries sustained in line of duty.

According to King Nartey, officers who suffer injuries while battling fires or performing other emergency rescue operations bear the cost of their medical bills.

He noted in an interview with GHOne TV on March 22 that the officers are only reimbursed afterward, describing the process as cumbersome and sometimes uncertain.

“We don’t have any health insurance. A simple thank you would have suffice …When firefighters get injured at the scene of fire, they use their own resources to take care of themselves and later apply for refund to be paid to them.

“So if at that moment you don’t have money, you would have to go and borrow money from people to be able to take care of yourself. That’s the reality firefighters are faced with,” he stated.

Alex King Nartey’s comment follows the recent remarks made by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, during his visit to the site of the devastating fire outbreak at Adum in Kumasi.

During his visit on March 22, Dr. Amoakohene was seen visibly frustrated when he observed what he believed to be an empty fire tender stationed at the scene.

The Regional Minister was not pleased with the presence of the empty fire tender, demanding an explanation from the officers on duty.

In response, King Nartey expressed disappointment at the minister’s reaction. He believes that a simple gesture of appreciation from the Minister would have been more appropriate.

He further criticised the manner in which the minister addressed the firefighters, arguing that such action demoralizes personnel who risk their lives daily to save lives and properties.

“You could have easily spoken to the commanding officer at that time and get updates, but to create a scene with a camera on you to demoralise the efforts of the firefighters who have inhaled different toxic substances was not the best,” Alex King Nartey added.

The post There’s no health insurance for firefighters – Alex King Nartey first appeared on 3News.

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