SRINAGAR, November 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services Department on Thursday issued a winter fire safety advisory, urging people to take precautions while using heating appliances, Bukharis, Kangris and LPG heaters to prevent fire incidents, suffocation and loss of life and property.
The department said the use of heating appliances increases during winter and their improper handling can lead to fire incidents and other hazards.
It advised people to use standard-marked heating appliances and electric blankets, ensure they are checked before use, and switch off and unplug electric heaters before going to bed or leaving home. Proper ventilation should be maintained while using LPG heaters, Bukharis and other fuel-burning appliances. People were also advised against leaving LPG heaters on while sleeping or when rooms are unattended.
The advisory called for regular checks of LPG pipes, regulators and connections for leaks or damage, and advised people to switch off cylinder valves and stove knobs when not in use.
The department also urged people to handle Kangris carefully, keep them away from bedding, curtains and other combustible materials, and avoid burning or storing charcoal in enclosed spaces. Ashes and embers should be completely extinguished before disposal.
It cautioned against overloading electrical sockets and extension boards and advised people to get defective wiring repaired by qualified electricians. Electrical wires should be kept away from hot surfaces, water and damp areas.
The advisory further urged households to avoid storing dry grass, firewood, hay, paper and other combustible materials near heating appliances, and cautioned against leaving cooking unattended or drying clothes and blankets over or near heaters and Bukharis.
People were advised to keep suitable fire extinguishers or buckets of water and sand near heating and cooking areas, while ensuring that staircases, corridors and escape routes remain clear.
In case of a fire, the public has been asked to contact Fire and Emergency Services on toll-free number 101 or the Srinagar control room at 0194-2452155 and 0194-2452222, and Jammu control room at 0191-2457705 and 0191-2435283.
