Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 16: Ahead of winter, the Deputy Director of Fire and Emergency Services, Kashmir, Aqib Hussain, today urged residents to follow strict fire safety measures, citing a spike in fire incidents compared to summer.
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While talking to reporters here, Hussain said the increase in fires is primarily due to excessive use of heating gadgets during winter. “Most fire incidents are caused by electric short circuits, overloads, or improperly maintained heating gadgets,” he said, advising residents to use ISI-marked equipment and conduct electrical audits of their homes.
He also highlighted safety concerns related to LPG stoves and other cooking appliances. “Ensure proper ventilation when using LPG stoves, and turn them off before sleeping or leaving the house. Use ISI-marked hoses and regulators, and avoid unattended cooking,” he said.
The official warned against other unsafe winter practices common in Kashmir, such as using water bottles with electric blankets, storing combustible materials like wood or dry grass near living areas, and unsafe handling of Kangri. He recommended storing flammable materials in separate sheds away from living spaces and handling Kangri cautiously to prevent fire incidents.
Hussain said that toxic gases and oxygen depletion from LPG stoves are major causes of fatalities in winter fires. “Many people die because of toxic gases produced during combustion, so ventilation is critical whenever stoves are used,” he said.
He urged residents to immediately inform fire services in case of a fire rather than attempting to tackle it alone. “Early reporting allows our teams to respond efficiently. Our toll-free number is 101, and nearby fire stations can also be contacted,” he said.
Hussain added that the department has taken extensive winter preparedness measures, including mobilizing additional manpower and machinery, to ensure rapid response to emergencies and assist the public during snow accumulation.
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