Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Srinagar, Nov 10 (KNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory authorities have urged residents to exercise heightened caution when utilizing heating appliances, open flames, and disposing of smoking materials during the winter months.
Historically, mishandling of heating gadgets during winter has tragically resulted in numerous fire incidents, rendering dozens of people homeless. In response to this, authorities are emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring that all heating equipment in homes is in proper working condition.
A recent survey has revealed that cooking stands as the primary cause of fires, closely followed by heating equipment. In light of this, the advisory underscores the necessity of adopting preventive measures to substantially reduce the risk of fire incidents.
The region experiences dry conditions during this time of the year, creating a conducive environment for the ignition and rapid spread of grass fires. Authorities are keen to highlight that the extremely dry conditions significantly elevate the risk of fires igniting, with windy weather conditions further exacerbating the chances and speed of fire spreading.
In this regard, authorities specifically call upon the public to remain vigilant, especially in rural areas where agricultural produce is vulnerable to fire.
A government official urged caution, stating, “Agricultural produce is particularly susceptible to fire, so people, especially in rural areas, must exercise caution during this period,” the official told KNS.
Government sources said that the fire and emergency department has been directed to disseminate information about the risks associated with cold weather and provide detailed explanations of preventive actions.
These measures include the clearance of dry grasses, overgrown bushes, and dead branches of trees during the season.
Additionally, authorities have instructed the fire department to remain prepared for changes in fire risk as weather conditions evolve. The fire safety advisory will undergo continuous updates to ensure it accurately reflects the current situation and conditions.
Recognizing the increased incidence of fire during the winter season in Kashmir, the fire and emergency department is set to issue an advisory to government hospitals across the Union Territory, urging them to set ready various firefighting mechanisms in their facilities.
The department has noted a concerning increase in fire incidents in Kashmir during the winter season and stressed the importance of heightened vigilance when using winter gadgets.
In the past concerns were raised regarding the lack of major fire fighting systems in many government buildings and hospitals in the UT.
“This deficiency may pose a significant risk to the safety of thousands of people. Urgent call is needed for a comprehensive fire safety check at all government buildings and hospitals in Jammu and Kashmir, with a particular focus on reviewing fire safety measures, especially in areas with electrical installations,” said a source in the fire and emergency department.(KNS)