The Bank of Ghana has outlined steps for individuals and businesses to recover partially burnt or mutilated currency notes—a welcome relief for victims of fire outbreaks.

According to the central bank, as long as the serial numbers are visible, burnt notes remain legal tender and can be exchanged. However, if notes are completely reduced to ashes, they cannot be recovered.

What to Do:

Identify Partially Burnt Notes: Ensure serial numbers are still visible. Visit a Police Station: Obtain an extract report, including the serial numbers and estimated value of the damaged notes. Submit to a Bank: Take the report and notes to the Bank of Ghana or any commercial bank for verification and exchange.

While not all banks may require a police report, it is strongly recommended to avoid delays.

Authorities urge the public to store large sums securely in banks and adopt digital alternatives such as mobile money and online banking to minimize risks from fire-related incidents.