Srinagar, Nov 05: The Jammu and Kashmir Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES) Department on Thursday issued a winter fire safety advisory, urging people to take precautionary measures while using heating appliances, Bukharis, Kangris and LPG heaters to prevent fire incidents, suffocation and loss of life and property.
In an advisory issued for the general public, the department said the use of heating appliances increases considerably during winter, and their improper use or careless handling could lead to fire incidents and other hazards.
The department advised people to use standard-marked heating appliances and electric blankets, ensure they are properly checked before use, and switch off and unplug electric heaters before going to bed or leaving home.
The advisory called for proper ventilation while using LPG heaters, Bukharis and other fuel-burning appliances, warning against leaving LPG heaters running while sleeping or when rooms are unattended.
People have been advised to regularly check LPG pipes, regulators and connections for leakage or damage and switch off cylinder valves and stove knobs when not in use.
The advisory urged people to handle Kangris carefully, keep them in stable positions and away from bedding, curtains and other combustible materials. It cautioned against burning or storing charcoal in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and advised ensuring that ashes and embers are completely extinguished before disposal.
The department has warned against overloading electrical sockets and extension boards, advising people to use properly rated safety devices and get defective wiring repaired by qualified electricians. It advised them to keep electrical wires away from hot surfaces, water and damp areas.
People have also been advised not to store dry grass, firewood, hay, paper and other combustible materials inside residential houses or near heating appliances. The advisory stressed that people should not leave cooking unattended and should keep combustible materials away from open flames.
The department also cautioned against drying clothes and blankets over or near heaters and Bukharis, and urged people not to throw burning cigarette butts or matchsticks carelessly.
It advised households to keep suitable fire extinguishers and buckets filled with water or sand readily available near heating and cooking areas, while ensuring that staircases, corridors and escape routes remain clear.
In case of a fire, people have been asked to immediately contact Fire & Emergency Services through the toll-free emergency number 101 or the following control rooms: Srinagar Control Room: 0194-2452155, 0194-2452222. Jammu Control Room: 0191-2457705, 0191-2435283—(KNO)
