Pulwama, Nov 02: In response to an increase in fire incidents due to an extended dry spell, the Deputy Commissioner’s office in South Kashmir’s Pulwama and Shopian districts has issued a public advisory urging residents to follow essential fire safety measures.
The advisory calls for heightened vigilance in both households and forested areas to prevent potential fires and reduce the impact of any incidents. Residents are advised to maintain proper housekeeping standards, including safe storage of flammable materials away from heat sources and regular inspection of electrical cords and appliances for damage.
The notice emphasizes the importance of checking gas cylinders and stoves for leaks and avoiding overloaded electrical outlets, which pose common fire risks. With winter approaching, residents are reminded to use heating appliances carefully and ensure that fire safety equipment, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, is readily accessible at home.
The advisory also stresses the importance of supervising children, cautioning families to keep lighters, matches, and other fire-related items out of their reach. Regular fire safety drills are recommended to help families and communities prepare for emergencies. Additionally, it advises safe storage and handling of charcoal, particularly for winter heating, to prevent accidental fires.
In forested and rural areas, further precautions are advised. Residents are urged to avoid burning waste or debris near forests and to ensure cigarette butts are fully extinguished before disposal. Campers are reminded to douse campfires completely with water before leaving to ensure no embers remain that could spark a fire. Leaving fires unattended, particularly at night in pastures or forested areas, is strongly discouraged, as such conditions pose a high risk of spreading fires.
