Electrical safety also features prominently in the guidelines
As temperatures drop in the Kashmir Valley, the Jammu & Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued crucial fire safety guidelines to help prevent incidents that tend to spike during the harsh winter months. The advisory underscores the need for heightened awareness and safety measures to protect lives and property from fire hazards.
The JKDMA has stressed the importance of installing smoke detectors and alarms in all buildings, noting that these devices can significantly improve survival rates during fire incidents. “The functioning of smoke alarms can increase survival chances by 50 per cent,” stated the advisory.
Electrical safety also features prominently in the guidelines. Residents have been cautioned against running electrical cords under carpets or in areas with heavy foot traffic to minimise risks. The authority has also issued a strong reminder to keep matches and lighters locked away from children to prevent accidental fires.
To improve emergency preparedness, the JKDMA recommends placing fire extinguishers at strategic locations, ensuring they are functional, and training household members in their use. In the event of a fire, the advisory emphasises the importance of staying calm, evacuating the premises immediately, and calling emergency services. Re-entering a burning building should be strictly avoided, it warns.
The guidelines also provide specific instructions for dealing with personal fire emergencies. If clothing catches fire, the recommended action is to drop to the ground and roll to extinguish the flames, rather than running, as movement can accelerate the burning. Using a shower to douse flames quickly is also advised.
In addition, the JKDMA has highlighted the importance of fire safety education to mitigate risks during winter when the reliance on heating devices significantly increases. Proper ventilation, never leaving heating devices unattended, and keeping flammable materials away from heat sources are essential practices for maintaining safety.
The winter season, marked by increased use of heaters and other warming devices, poses heightened fire risks. The JKDMA’s detailed advisory is a timely reminder for residents of the region to adopt precautionary measures, ensuring their safety during the cold months.
