Gambia Fire and Rescue Service

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Gambia Fire and Rescue Service

Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, Government Organization, 9 Ecowas Avenue, Banjul.

Background Information

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Services (GFRS) trace its origins to 1949 when it was established as a unit within the police force for more information https://gfrs.gov.gm/ for emergency call 118

06/08/2026

FIRE SAFETY INFORMATION: PETROL AND OTHER FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

Petrol and other flammable liquids, including diesel, kerosene, paint thinners, solvents, alcohol-based products, and certain industrial chemicals, are highly combustible and can ignite easily when exposed to heat, sparks, open flames, or other sources of ignition. Improper handling, storage, or transportation of these substances can result in devastating fires or explosions, causing loss of life, injuries, destruction of property, and environmental pollution.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) urges all petrol filling station operators, fuel transporters, businesses, institutions, and members of the public to observe the following fire safety measures at all times:

Fire Safety Guidelines

1. Never smoke or use open flames near petrol or other flammable liquids.

2. Always switch off vehicle engines, generators, and other equipment before refuelling or transferring flammable liquids.

3. Avoid distractions while handling fuel. Do not use mobile phones or engage in unnecessary activities that may divert your attention from safe operations.

4. Store flammable liquids safely. Always use approved, clearly labelled containers and keep them in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from heat, sparks, direct sunlight, and other sources of ignition.

5. Never store petrol or other flammable liquids inside homes, offices, or places where children can gain access.

6. Clean up spills immediately using appropriate safety procedures. Never allow flammable liquids to enter drains or waterways.

7. Ensure that suitable fire extinguishers are available, properly positioned, regularly inspected, serviced, and maintained in good working condition.

8. Ensure that all personnel are trained in fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and the correct use of portable fire extinguishers.

9. In the event of a fire, raise the alarm immediately, evacuate everyone to a safe location, and notify the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service without delay. Only attempt to extinguish a small fire if it is safe to do so.

10. Always remain vigilant and strictly adhere to established fire safety procedures. Fire prevention is everyone's responsibility.

Preventing fires is always better than fighting them. Every precaution taken today can prevent a tragedy tomorrow. By working together and observing these essential fire safety measures, we can protect lives, property, businesses, and the environment.

GFRS FIRE AND RESCUE EMERGENCY NUMBERS

National Toll-Free Emergency Number: 118

Fire and Rescue Stations

- Banjul Fire and Rescue Station: 422 7666
- Bakau Fire and Rescue Station: 459 5415
- Kotu Fire and Rescue Station: 446 3470
- Brikama Fire and Rescue Station: 448 4559
- Kanilai Fire and Rescue Station: 682 2698 / 935 8331 / 267 0124 / 330 3258
- Soma Fire and Rescue Station: 433 1608
- Bansang Fire and Rescue Station: 567 4333
- Basse Fire and Rescue Station: 566 8905
- Farafenni Fire and Rescue Station: 436 5148
- Barra Fire and Rescue Station: 3575770 or 7383749

GFRS SEA RESCUE STATION NUMBERS

- Barra Sea Rescue Station: 323 2070
- Brufut Sea Rescue Station: 323 3071
- Tanji Sea Rescue Station: 323 3072
- Sanyang Sea Rescue Station: 323 2073
- Gunjur Sea Rescue Station: 323 2074

In the event of a fire, rescue, or water-related emergency, call the nearest GFRS Fire and Rescue Station or Sea Rescue Station, or dial the national toll-free emergency number 118. Early reporting enables a faster emergency response and helps save lives and property.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) remains committed to protecting lives, property, and the environment through effective fire prevention, emergency response, rescue operations, and public education.

Fire Safety Is Everyone's Responsibility. Together, Let Us Prevent Fires Before They Start.

04/08/2026

4th August 2026

SEVEN GFRS PERSONNEL EARN CERTIFICATES IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) is proud to announce that seven of its personnel have successfully completed a Certificate Programme in Information Technology at St. Stephen's Institute of Technology.

This achievement underscores the Service's commitment to capacity building and professional development by equipping its personnel with essential digital skills to enhance operational efficiency, administrative effectiveness, and service delivery.

Speaking on behalf of the GFRS Management, the Director of Administration, Divisional Fire Officer Pateh Gibba, congratulated the graduates on their successful completion of the programme. He encouraged them to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in support of the Service's ongoing digital transformation while embracing continuous learning and professional growth for the benefit of the institution.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service commends the graduates for their dedication, commitment, and perseverance, and wishes them continued success in their professional careers as they contribute to the advancement of the Service.

03/08/2026

DEPUTY CHIEF FIRE OFFICER HANDS OVER SIS-DONATED MOTORCYCLES TO FIRE STATIONS

3rd August 2026

DEPUTY CHIEF FIRE OFFICER HANDS OVER SIS-DONATED MOTORCYCLES TO FIRE STATIONS

The Deputy Chief Fire Officer of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS), Yaya Sonko, today officially handed over three motorcycles to designated Fire and Rescue Stations to enhance emergency response, operational efficiency, and community fire safety outreach.

The motorcycles were donated by the Director General of the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Mr. Ousman Sowe, as part of the longstanding partnership between the State Intelligence Service and the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service in strengthening emergency service delivery in The Gambia.

Speaking during the handing-over ceremony on behalf of the Chief Fire Officer, Masaneh S.K. Bah, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Yaya Sonko expressed profound appreciation to the Director General and the Management of the State Intelligence Service for their generous support. He described the donation as timely and significant, noting that the motorcycles will greatly enhance rapid emergency response, operational supervision, and community fire safety outreach across the country.

DCFO Sonko further stated that this was not the first time the Director General of the State Intelligence Service, Mr. Ousman Sowe, had extended such invaluable assistance to the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service. He commended the Director General for his unwavering commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Service and thanked him for his continued partnership and support towards improving emergency service delivery in The Gambia.

He urged the Station Commanders and all personnel entrusted with the motorcycles to ensure they are properly maintained, used responsibly, and deployed solely for their intended purpose of serving the public efficiently and effectively.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service extends its sincere gratitude to the Director General and the Management of the State Intelligence Service for their continued support and looks forward to further strengthening the cordial relationship between the two institutions in the interest of public safety and national development.

30/07/2026

GFRS AND UTG RED CROSS LINK STRENGTHEN COLLABORATION ON FIRE SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Banjul, Thursday, 30 July 2026

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) today welcomed a five-member delegation from the University of The Gambia (UTG) Red Cross Link to the GFRS Brigade Headquarters in Banjul.

The visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the GFRS and the UTG Red Cross Link in promoting fire safety, fire prevention, first aid, disaster preparedness, and simulation exercises at the University's Faraba Campus.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Leader of the UTG Red Cross Link, Mr. Musa Sonko, expressed gratitude to the GFRS for the warm reception and hospitality extended to the team. He noted that the proposed partnership would significantly enhance emergency preparedness and strengthen the culture of safety within the university community.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Adama Sanyang stated that the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service and the Gambia Red Cross Society share a common mission of protecting lives and property. She commended the UTG Red Cross Link for its proactive initiative in fostering collaboration to promote a safer and more resilient campus environment.

Also speaking during the meeting, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Amat Janha, Operations Commander, Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS), underscored the importance of safeguarding the lives and well-being of students, staff, and visitors at the UTG Faraba Campus. He encouraged the University Management to strengthen its collaboration with the GFRS through regular fire safety training, fire risk inspections, simulation exercises, and other emergency preparedness programmes.

Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service, Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) Yaya Sonko thanked the delegation for the visit and commended the UTG Red Cross Link for its commitment to promoting safety within the university community. He highlighted the longstanding partnership between the GFRS and the School of State Registered Nursing, noting that the institution has consistently collaborated with the Service in student admissions and practical training exercises.

DCFO Sonko reaffirmed the GFRS's commitment to working with educational institutions and other stakeholders to strengthen public safety. He emphasized that the doors of the Service remain open to all institutions, organisations, and members of the public seeking to promote safety and build more resilient communities through partnership and collaboration.

28/07/2026

GFRS WELCOMES OFFICERS AFTER SPECIALISED TRAINING IN CHINA

28 July 2026

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) today welcomed Station Officer Musa Senghor and Sub-Officer Sainabou Badjie following their successful completion of a two-week specialised training programme in the People's Republic of China.

Organised under the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the training focused on disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, fire safety, emergency response coordination, and modern emergency management practices aimed at strengthening the capacities of developing countries.

Upon their return, the officers presented their certificates to Chief Fire Officer Masaneh S.K. Bah and the Senior Management Team during a brief ceremony at the GFRS Headquarters in Banjul.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Yaya Sonko congratulated the officers and expressed confidence that the knowledge and experience gained would strengthen the Service's operational capacity and enhance public safety. He encouraged them to share their newly acquired skills with colleagues to promote continuous professional development.

In his closing remarks, Chief Fire Officer Masaneh S.K. Bah welcomed the officers home and congratulated them on their achievement. He emphasised the importance of collaboration among security institutions under the Ministry of Interior and urged the officers to transfer the knowledge and best practices gained to other personnel.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service remains committed to strengthening its operational capacity through continuous professional development and strategic international partnerships.

25/07/2026

BRIKAMA FIRE AND RESCUE STATION EMPOWERS STUDENTS AND TEACHERS WITH ESSENTIAL FIRE SAFETY KNOWLEDGE

25 July 2026

As part of its unwavering commitment to promoting fire safety and strengthening community resilience, the Brikama Fire and Rescue Station of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) today conducted a comprehensive fire safety sensitization programme at AlHudar Quranic Memorization School in Brikama Santa Su.

The sensitization was led by Sub-Officer Buba Jammeh, Head of the Brikama Fire Safety Team, together with members of the station's Fire Safety Team. The initiative forms part of the GFRS's nationwide public fire safety awareness campaign aimed at fostering a culture of fire prevention and preparedness in schools and communities.

During the interactive session, participants were educated on the common causes of fire outbreaks and the practical measures that can be taken to prevent them. The team highlighted the importance of electrical safety, the safe handling and storage of flammable materials, responsible cooking practices, and the proper use of fire sources. Participants were also guided on the appropriate actions to take in the event of a fire emergency, including raising the alarm promptly, evacuating safely, remaining calm, and immediately notifying the Fire Service.

The Fire Safety Team encouraged both students and teachers to serve as advocates for fire safety by sharing the knowledge gained with their families, neighbours, and communities. They emphasized that fire safety is a collective responsibility and that adherence to basic safety practices can significantly reduce the occurrence of fire incidents and help safeguard lives and property.

The programme benefited a total of 223 participants, comprising 210 students (115 boys and 95 girls) and 13 teachers, all of whom actively participated and demonstrated a keen interest in the life-saving lessons delivered.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service remains steadfast in its mission to build safer and more resilient communities through sustained public education, awareness creation, and proactive fire prevention initiatives. By continuously engaging schools, institutions, and communities across the country, the Service seeks to empower citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent fire emergencies and respond effectively when they occur. Prevention remains the first and most effective line of defence against fire.

Emergency Toll-Free Number: 118

23/07/2026

BARRA FIRE AND RESCUE STATION RESCUES KITTEN FROM WELL IN ESSAU

23 July 2026

The Barra Fire and Rescue Station of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) successfully rescued a kitten that had fallen into a well in Essau after receiving a distress call at approximately 11:20 a.m. today.

Upon arrival, the rescue team swiftly assessed the situation and executed a carefully coordinated rescue operation, successfully retrieving the kitten alive and unharmed.

The successful rescue underscores the operational preparedness, professionalism, and dedication of GFRS personnel, who remain committed to providing prompt and effective emergency response services to protect lives, property, animals, and the environment.

As part of its ongoing public safety campaign, the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service urges all well owners to ensure that wells are securely covered when not in use. Where necessary, protective walls should be constructed around wells to a safe height to help prevent accidental falls involving both people and animals. In addition, abandoned or disused wells should be properly filled in and permanently sealed to eliminate potential hazards and enhance community safety.

GFRS reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property through rapid emergency response, public safety education, fire prevention, rescue operations, and sustained community engagement.

For fire and rescue emergencies, call the GFRS toll-free emergency number 118 or contact the Barra Fire and Rescue Station on 3575770 or 7383749.
#𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

22/07/2026

GFRS SWIFTLY CONTAINS FIRE OUTBREAK IN SUNBUNDU VILLAGE

22 July 2026

The Soma Fire and Rescue Station of the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) responded swiftly to a fire outbreak at Sunbundu Village in the Lower River Region (LRR), successfully containing the blaze and preventing it from spreading to nearby properties.

The emergency call was received at 6:55 a.m. by Station Officer Buba Badjie from Senior Divisional Fire Officer (SDFO) Kinteh. The affected property is owned and occupied by Mr. Alagie Amadou Ndongo.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Blue Watch Crew was immediately mobilized to the scene. Through their prompt, coordinated, and professional response, the firefighters brought the fire under control within a short period, thereby minimizing damage and safeguarding surrounding homes and property.

The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service commends the dedication, courage, and professionalism demonstrated by the responding crew. The Service also urges the public to remain vigilant and strictly observe fire safety measures to help prevent fire incidents.

In the event of a fire or rescue emergency, call the GFRS toll-free emergency number 118 immediately for prompt assistance.

Gambia Fire and Rescue Service
Saving Lives and Protecting Property.

20/07/2026

Kotu fire station rescue a goat alive from a well in Sukuta

Address

9 Ecowas Avenue
Banjul

Website

https://gfrs.gov.gm/, https://www.instagram.com/gfrs118?igsh=MXdtbDhoYXR5cXUyeg%3D%3D, https://www.tiktok.com/@gambia.fi

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