DAK urges public to adopt safe heating practices to prevent tragedies

Srinagar, Jan 06: In light of the deaths of five family members in a suffocation incident in Srinagar, the Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) on Monday appealed to the public to use safe heating arrangements during the harsh winter months.
President DAK, Dr. MY Tak, expressed profound grief over the incident and emphasized the importance of adhering to stringent safety measures to avoid such preventable tragedies.
“While it is essential to keep our living spaces warm during extremely cold winters, safety must remain a priority. We urge everyone to adopt heating methods responsibly and ensure vigilant safety measures to avoid incidents related to suffocation and electrical short-circuits,” he said.
The doctors’ body highlighted the need for awareness regarding heating equipment.
“Many families use various heating arrangements, such as gas heaters, kerosene heaters, electric blankets, and blowers, without fully understanding their risks. The lack of awareness or a callous approach can lead to disasters,” it said.
DAK said hotel owners should also educate tourists about dangers of unsafe heating appliances like gas heaters and electric blankets, which are commonly used in the region.
It advised people to avoid using gas or kerosene heaters in closed rooms without an exhaust system, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. “Always turn off gas heaters, oil-based heaters, and electric blankets before going to bed,” it said.
“Have heating equipment, such as furnaces, inspected annually by professionals to ensure they function safely. Refrain from plugging multiple heating devices into a single socket to prevent electrical short-circuits,” DAK advised.
It suggested people to equip homes with carbon monoxide detectors, especially if using gas-based heaters and maintain a distance between heating appliances and flammable items like curtains, papers, and furniture.
“Keeping indoor temperatures at 19°C or above is crucial for health, especially for children and the elderly. However, the safety of heating methods must not be compromised. Proper precautions can save lives and prevent tragic incidents during winter,” DK said.
It urged local authorities and community leaders to organize awareness campaigns to educate the public about the potential dangers of heating equipment and promote safer practices.
“Winter is a challenging time for all, but it must not come at the cost of lives. Let us pledge to prioritize safety in our homes and ensure a warm yet secure environment for our loved ones,” DAK added.