Firework stalls must take extensive safety measures, with a fire tender mandated to be on-site at all times
As Diwali approaches, homes will soon glow with diyas, sky lanterns, and vibrant string lights. Shops and buildings across the city are also set to shine, and night light-and-sound shows are scheduled to add sparkle to the festive air. Amidst this excitement, however, fire safety remains a critical concern. Firecracker stalls, housing societies, and other public areas are focusing on precautions to ensure a safe celebration, particularly for children, who require adult supervision around fireworks, and for women in traditional attire that can be highly flammable.
Firework stalls must take extensive safety measures, with a fire tender mandated to be on-site at all times. However, during a surprise inspection , no fire tenders were found at the major firecracker stall clusters in main areas of Delhi like Sadar, Karol Bagh .
Speaking on safety, Additional Divisional Officer Ramesh Gangad advised, “People should avoid using sparklers and rockets from balconies or building terraces, as it poses safety risks to nearby residential apartments. Clothes hanging to dry can easily catch fire, and rockets may land on neighbouring balconies or through open windows, potentially igniting fires.” He further advised citizens to burst crackers in open spaces, keep water buckets nearby, and ensure children are monitored by adults.
The dangers to two-wheeler riders during Diwali celebrations were also highlighted. Gangad noted that airborne sparks can easily ignite clothing, particularly women’s saris, which are highly flammable, and flying debris may pose risks to eye safety.
Fire Officer Pankaj Jagtap commented on the heightened risk on key festival days: “The majority of fires occur on Laxmi Puja or Padwa. Weekly offs and holidays are cancelled to ensure maximum manpower is available to address the heightened fire risk during this time.”
Jagtap stated that buildings over 15 metres in height should be equipped with firefighting equipment such as fire doors and extinguishers, while structures taller than 45 metres must have sprinklers and fire hydrant systems on every floor.
Meanwhile, firecracker stall owner Sunil Nule noted that the Karol Bagh stalls have operated safely for 150 years without incident. “No incense sticks are lit, and bouncers are present to discourage people from bursting crackers nearby to ensure safety,” he stated. He mentioned that the fire station is just 300 metres away, fire tender is stationed on-site. All stall owners are compliant with fire safety regulations, keeping a 200-litre water barrel, a fire extinguisher, and a bucket of sand ready.
Essential Safety Measures For Diwali Firecracker Stalls:
– Stalls should be at least 10 feet apart, and firecrackers must not be burst within 500 metres of any stall.
– To obtain a No Objection Certificate (NoC), each stall must have a 200-litre water barrel, a fire extinguisher, and a bucket of sand.
– Stalls must be constructed with RCC or tin, and all sales are to occur inside.
– Lighting incense sticks or diyas near stalls is prohibited, and flammable materials such as cloth, curtains, wood, or plastic are not permitted.
Safety Guidelines For Public:
Chief Fire Officer has issued the following advisories for Diwali safety:
– Children should always be supervised while bursting crackers.
– Used sparklers should be soaked in water instead of being discarded near dustbins.
– Store only a small quantity of firecrackers in a safe box away from children.
– Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics like tericot, terylene, or nylon during celebrations.
– Avoid holding flowerpots (anaars) or ground spinners (chakris) as they can explode unexpectedly.
– Do not dry clothes on terraces or balconies during the festival due to the risk of airborne sparks.
– Rockets should not be launched from bottles or tins, as this can increase fire hazards.
– Never tamper with the gunpowder in crackers, as it can cause serious injuries.
– Keep diyas and lamps away from flammable materials like curtains.
– Avoid bursting garland crackers (ladis) in public areas, main roads, or narrow lanes.
– In case of an emergency, contact the fire department by dialling 101.
While the city prepares for an illuminated Diwali, these safety measures serve as crucial guidelines to prevent mishaps and ensure a safe celebration for all.
