Srinagar, Jan 06, ANB: As Kashmir endures an intense cold wave, the heavy reliance on heating appliances and traditional warming methods has become a double-edged sword for its residents. While these measures provide much-needed warmth, they also significantly increase the risk of fire incidents. This winter has already seen a disturbing surge in such cases. In a tragic incident, the husband-wife duo and their three children died due to asphyxiation on Sunday evening, the shocking incident occurred in Pandrethan area of Srinagar. It highlights the need for caution and preparedness.
To better understand this pressing issue, the Associated News Bureau spoke with Er. Aqib Hussain Mir, the Assistant Director of Fire and Emergency Services. He shed light on the primary reasons behind the rise in fire incidents during winter and provided essential guidance on preventing such tragedies.
Mr. Hussain explained that the combination of faulty heating appliances, improper handling of fire, and congested storage of flammable materials often leads to accidents. “Many households use traditional heating methods such as kangris (portable firepots) and wooden stoves, in addition to electric heaters. While these methods are effective, they can become hazardous if not handled properly,” he said.
He also pointed out that the use of substandard or poorly maintained appliances exacerbates the problem. “Many people rely on inexpensive or locally manufactured electric heaters that do not meet safety standards. Overloaded circuits and improper wiring are common issues that lead to short circuits and fires,” he added.
Another critical factor is negligence. Mr. Hussain noted that leaving heating devices unattended or placing them near flammable materials, such as curtains or furniture, significantly increases the risk. “In rural areas, where firewood is commonly used, sparks can easily ignite nearby items,” he warned.
Dos and Don’ts for Fire Safety
Acknowledging that the first responder to any fire incident is often an individual, Mr. Hussain emphasized the importance of awareness and quick action. He shared the following dos and don’ts for fire safety:
Dos:
· Regularly inspect and maintain all heating appliances to ensure they are in good working condition.
· Keep flammable materials away from heating sources, including electric heaters and stoves.
· Install smoke detectors in key areas of the house and check them periodically.
· Ensure electrical circuits are not overloaded; use surge protectors and avoid using multiple appliances on a single outlet.
· Keep fire extinguishers handy and educate family members on their proper use.
· In case of a fire, immediately inform the Fire and Emergency Services by dialing 101.
Don’ts:
· Avoid leaving heating appliances unattended, especially overnight.
· Do not use substandard or makeshift electrical equipment.
· Refrain from storing large quantities of flammable liquids or materials in closed spaces.
· Never attempt to extinguish an electrical fire with water; use a fire extinguisher or sand instead.
· Do not panic during a fire incident; assess the situation calmly and evacuate if necessary.
“The department has conducted more than 3000 awareness programmes this year to educate and train people about fire safety. More than 275000 people have been trained. As a proactive initiative taken by Director Alok Kumar ADGP IPS by taking into consideration the dry and harsh winter, the department has identified 15 locations in the UT where QRV's/Fire Pumps have deployed either to these locations or to nearest fire stations where from these will be utilized for these areas in case of any emergency” he added.
“Besides, in view of dry & harsh winter the Department has taken special initiative in far-flung & isolated villages by involving Public Representatives & Volunteers who are provided basic First Aid Firefighting Training besides Awareness about Fire Prevention & protection in their respective areas, in which Three Hundred & Thirty (330) Awareness Programmes have been conducted in different villages in which 744 Volunteers/Public Representative were trained,” he said.
On the part of the authorities, he assured that the Fire and Emergency Services department is fully equipped to respond to emergencies.
“We are conducting awareness drives and safety workshops in collaboration with local bodies to educate people about fire prevention,” he added. (ANB)
