The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is preparing for the summer season by taking measures to prevent fire-related incidents in the city. The GHMC’s Enforcement Vigilance & Disaster Management (EV&DM) wing has started awareness programs and emergency evacuation drills to educate people on how to respond and escape during emergencies.
During the summer, the Fire Services department faces challenges as they often have to deal with multiple fires. Most fires occur in scrap godowns, furniture-making units, and small industries where combustible materials are stored.
To ensure preparedness for fire incidents, the GHMC has initiated an action plan that includes regular awareness and evacuation drills. These drills take place in various locations, especially in places like schools, hospitals, shopping malls, office buildings, hotels, and banquet halls where large numbers of people gather.
Under the supervision of the Station Fire Officer (SFO), teams from the EV&DM demonstrate and involve people in practicing ways to escape from fires. They also conduct drills on evacuating buildings during emergencies, operating fire-fighting equipment, providing first aid and CPR, and educating citizens on what to do and what not to do in case of emergencies.
Recently, the EV&DM conducted emergency evacuation drills at several places including colleges, shopping malls, and complexes. They have also conducted over 50 awareness programs in public places, shopping malls, schools, and hospitals.
The Director-General of Fire Services, Y Nagi Reddy, held a review meeting with district fire officers to discuss their preparedness for the summer season. The department has trained personnel in rescue techniques such as flood and rope rescue.
Owners of buildings and establishments like schools, hospitals, and shopping malls can request mock drills by calling the helpline. Citizens can also report any unauthorized storage of hazardous chemicals in residential buildings. The identity of those reporting will be kept confidential.
