Achi news desk-
The city of Srinagar has witnessed a worrying surge in fire incidents in recent months. The increase in fire incidents has been mainly attributed to electrical short circuits and LPG leaks. According to officials from the Fire and Emergency Services Department, more than 175 fire incidents have been reported in Srinagar in the last two months alone, most of them caused by electricity and gas faults in let go Despite efforts to raise awareness through fire safety camps and programmes, Srinagar district according to media reports had received around 550-600 fire calls in the year 2023. Many individuals have ignored the prescribed guidelines for fire safety, lead to avoidable incidents. In response to this worrying situation, it is essential to prioritize fire safety education and precautionary measures to mitigate the risks caused by fire hazards. One of the essential steps to prevent fire incidents is to ensure that electrical equipment is regularly maintained. Electrical short circuits often occur due to the indiscriminate use of heating appliances and the overloading of electrical wires. By carrying out routine checks and repairs to electrical systems, individuals can significantly reduce the likelihood of short circuits and subsequent fires. Proper storage of flammable materials is another essential aspect of fire safety. Flammable substances such as LPG should be stored in designated areas away from potential sources of ignition. In addition, educating residents about the safe handling and storage of combustible materials can prevent accidental fires caused by negligence or oversight. Furthermore, raising awareness about fire evacuation procedures is crucial to saving lives in emergencies. Residents should be familiar with evacuation routes and assembly areas in their homes and workplaces. Holding regular fire drills and providing training on evacuation techniques can ensure a prompt and organized response in the event of a fire. The community also plays a vital role in fire prevention and response. Residents must be vigilant and report any signs of fire hazards or security breaches to the relevant authorities promptly. In light of the increasing fire incidents, there is an urgent need for joint efforts between government agencies, community organizations and citizens to tackle this issue effectively. Implementing stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, conducting regular inspections of residential and commercial properties, and improving public awareness campaigns are some of the measures that can be adopted to curb fire incidents in the Kashmir valley. In addition, leveraging technology such as smart fire detection systems and fire resistant building materials can strengthen fire safety infrastructure and reduce the impact of potential disasters. Investing in modern firefighting equipment and training for emergency responders can also improve the region’s ability to mitigate fire-related risks. At the same time, the authorities should devise a robust mechanism to compensate fire victims. The relief program may include financial assistance, temporary housing assistance, and assistance for essential needs such as food, clothing, and medical expenses. Residents should also be encouraged to take out insurance. Having insurance policies will make fire victims eligible for compensation for property damage and loss of personal property.
