The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has recorded a 17.8% decline in prank calls in the first quarter of 2026, but says an average of 1,213 hoax calls daily still threatens emergency response.
Data released by the Service shows 109,179 prank calls were made between January and March 2026, compared to 132,770 calls during the same period in 2025. This represents a reduction of 23,591 calls.
The daily average dropped from 1,475 to 1,213, while weekly figures fell from 10,327 to 8,492. Monthly totals declined from 44,257 to 36,393.
The Service described the decline as encouraging but warned that the numbers remain dangerously high.
“Every prank call ties up emergency lines and can delay help to people facing real emergencies,” the Service said in a statement.
“Emergency lines are for emergencies only. A prank call can prevent someone in real danger from getting the help they need,” it added.
The Service has renewed its public education campaign, urging responsible citizenship to protect public safety.
It also cautioned that under the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), making prank calls to emergency services is an offense and offenders can be prosecuted.
