Srinagar Administration Issues Winter Fire Safety Advisory Amid Rise in Incidents
Srinagar, Nov 12: As temperatures drop and heating devices return to homes across the Valley, the District Administration Srinagar has issued a detailed winter fire safety advisory, urging residents to take preventive measures to avoid fire mishaps during the cold season.
The advisory, released by the Office of the District Magistrate Srinagar, highlights a worrying increase in fire incidents linked to the growing use of electrical heaters, kangris, and LPG appliances. The administration warned that the dry winter weather, combined with heavy electricity load and careless handling of fire sources, often leads to devastating household fires.
Residents have been strongly advised to ensure that all electrical heating gadgets, bukharis, and LPG stoves are switched off before going to bed or leaving their homes. The advisory also calls for extreme caution while using kangris, the traditional Kashmiri firepots, suggesting they be kept on stable surfaces and away from bedding at night.
Locals have been told not to store dry grass, firewood, or other flammable materials near their houses. The use of low-quality or damaged electrical appliances, loose wiring, and makeshift plug connections has been strictly discouraged. Authorities have also stressed the importance of installing Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) and proper earthing systems to prevent short circuits.
The advisory further recommends maintaining proper ventilation when using LPG heaters, keeping all exit routes clear, and ensuring water sources remain accessible for emergency use. Citizens have also been cautioned against throwing away burning cigarette butts carelessly, a common cause of accidental fires in winter.
To strengthen public awareness, the Srinagar administration has instructed that the fire safety guidelines be circulated through newspapers, radio, and TV channels in both English and Urdu. Posters and pamphlets will also be distributed in busy markets and residential areas to reach a wider audience.
In case of emergencies, citizens have been asked to immediately contact the Fire and Emergency Services Department on the toll-free number 101 or the Srinagar Control Room at 0194-2452155 / 2452222, or to alert the nearest fire station.
Authorities have urged residents to remain alert throughout the winter months, stressing that most fire accidents can be avoided through awareness and simple precautions.
