DANGEROUS PRACTICES CONSIDERED "NORMAL" IN GHANA
Ghana is a lovely country, the general atmosphere is peaceful with reason and smeared with pockets of jaw-dropping scenarios, here I present to you some dangerous things considered normal in Ghana.
1. SETTING UP SHOPS AND STALLS UNDER ELECTRIC PYLONS
It will surprise visitors to see how often Ghanaians set up trading centers and shops under electric transmission lines.
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A market scene under an electric pylon in Ghana photo source: https://www.pulse.com.gh |
Though there have been several warnings to individuals to be aware of such practices, it is often normal to see these happening in most populated places. Although this is a dangerous thing to do, it is deemed normal in Ghana.
2. CELL TOWER AT HOME
Another instance of disbelief is finding cell towers in some houses. This is also something dangerous but considered normal in Ghana.
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Cell Tower in a house photo source: photo file |
I once stayed in a house like this, we had a cell tower very close to the house. Aside from the exposure to heavy doses of radiation, there is the danger of the mast breaking off and falling onto the roof or injuring someone. It is something lots of people in Ghana do not consider as hazardous!
3. RIDING A MOTORCYCLE WITH HEADSETS INSTEAD OF HELMETS
Some will blame illiteracy, but this is one common thing you see in Ghana. Most often you will see bikers in headsets ignoring all the dangers that come with it. It is not just awkward and pitiful to see, but also frequent on a normal day in Ghana.
4. STONE ON LPG CYLINDERS
A bit unusual but a common practice in Ghana both at home and in public places.
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Stone on an LPG cylinder photo source:https://www.graphic.com.gh |
Though the regulatory authorities frown on it, it is a common practice. Chances are; when buying fast food on the street the next time, with careful observation, you may see one. This is one dangerous practice that has been disregarded in Ghana.
5. RE-FUELLING COMMERCIAL VEHICLES WITH PASSENGERS ON BOARD
This is one common and dangerous practice in Ghana. Commercial drivers are so fond of this that it is seen as a normal practice.
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photo source: photo file |
While on board a commercial vehicle, drivers will likely drive into a filling station to refuel. There is a total disregard for passengers disembarking before this. It is not considered dangerous at all in Ghana.
6. ROVING THE EARS WITH FEATHER
It is how most of the Ghanaian populace was raised, including me (the author). Until the arrival of cotton buds, that was what we all did. Though it is a dangerous practice, it is considered normal in Ghana.
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A woman roving her ear with a feather photo source: www.ghanaweb.com |
7. MAKING PHONE CALLS BY FUEL DISPENSERS
Though most Ghanaians may not know this, it is dangerous to make or receive phone calls beside fuel dispensers.
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Making phone calls by a fuel dispenser is dangerous photo source: file photo |
8. SELF MEDICATION
The number one self-medication drug in Ghana is PARACETAMOL. Whatever the health-related issue; ranging from headache to toothache, the first thing most Ghanaians will go after is "Para".
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Self-Medication in Ghana photo source: photo file |
author: "cyberghost"
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