The Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District in an advisory issued has informed that in view of the fire incidents which occur on a regular basis in the district with untamed fire incidents having led to destruction of residential houses, institutions and commercial establishments and loss of lives and other properties; and in order to prevent such unfortunate incidents caused by fire, the public are advised to strictly follow the safety guidelines issued by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), East Jaintia Hills District.
The public are advised not to leave the place /venue while cooking, keep flammable materials away from fire sources, avoid open burning near residential areas. Place fire extinguishers in key areas such as kitchen, electrical rooms and exits and to develop a clear evacuation plan with multiple exits.
With regard to electric safety, the public are advised to avoid overloading sockets, use certified electrical appliances and to check the wiring regularly.
In household office safety, fire extinguisher is advised to be kept ready, installing of smoke alarm is also recommended and to ensure clear emergency exits.
While in commercial areas, all shop keepers/ shop holders/ vendors are advised to learnt fire safety tips and preventive measures and in case of fire emergency, the helpline number 112/101/108 are recommended to be contacted. Installation of fire alarm, suppression systems, ensuring of clear exit routes and emergency lightning are also advised.
Moreover, hazardous materials are advised to be stored safely, to take measures to insure shops and also display of fire safety instruction and emergency contact numbers and conduct of regular training and mock drills for all shop keepers/shop holders/vendors etcare recommended.
During fire incidents, people are advised to calmly leave the apartment/ house and close the door. Pull the fire alarm near the closest exit, if available, or raise an alarm by warning others.
If caught fire, drop to the ground, roll over and over to smother the flame and cover the face with hands while rolling to protect the airways, wrap the person with thick cloth such as blanket or rug to put out the fire. Avoid synthetic material, if possible, assist vulnerable individuals such as children, elderly people and differently abled persons and do not delay action.
After the fire, public are advised to provide first aid and seek medical attention, do not re-enter the building, report the incident to local authorities, get electrical, gas, structural system checked before re-use.
Furthermore, keep the smoke out, put a wet towel in the space at the bottom of the door. Call the emergency fire number and tell them the apartment/house number, let them know if one is trapped by smoke and fire and follow the guidelines measures being provided.
