Garhwal Post Bureau
Mussoorie, 14 Apr: As part of the National Fire Service Week 2026, the Fire Service here launched a comprehensive awareness campaign to alert the public about fire safety and prevention. The campaign commenced on today under the theme: “Safe Schools, Safe Hospitals, and an Aware Society—Let’s Unite to Prevent Fires”.
On the occasion of International Firefighters’ Day, an awareness rally was taken out from the Fire Station to Malinga Chowk, led by Fire Officer Rajkumar. During the rally, people were informed that even a small fire could escalate into a major disaster if not brought under control in a timely manner. The fire team explained to the general public that the initial minutes of a fire are the most critical; they urged any two individuals present at the scene to join forces and attempt to extinguish the fire immediately. They advised using water, sand, or blankets, and to report the incident to the emergency number 112 without delay.
The Fire Department also issued essential guidelines for various institutions: schools were advised to immediately replace old electrical wiring and faulty switches, and to ensure that emergency exit doors remain unobstructed at all times; hospitals were instructed not to store flammable materials near oxygen cylinders, to provide staff training on operating fire extinguishers, and to maintain special arrangements for the safe evacuation of patients.
The Fire Service also emphasised precautions to be observed in daily life, such as turning off the gas regulator after cooking. They advised against plugging too many appliances into a single socket; in the event of a fire, people were urged to exit while crouching low, avoid using elevators, adopt the “Stop, Drop, and Roll” technique if their clothes catch fire, and keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
The programme began with a tribute paid to the 67 firefighters who lost their lives in the Mumbai fire tragedy. Officials explained that it was following this very incident that the observance of this week was initiated across the country to raise public awareness.
Fire Officer Dheeraj Singh Tadiyal stated that fire safety is not solely the responsibility of the Fire Service; rather, major accidents can only be prevented through the vigilance and alertness of every citizen.
