As a residential occupant, are you well aware of the Do's and Don'ts during fire emergencies in your building?
- The building materials should be of a non-combustible type.
- Adequate space around the building should be maintained for easy access and maneuverability of fire service vehicles.
- All doors, windows, and compartments must be fire-resistant as per the 'National Building Code.'
- Furniture and decorative items should be non-combustible as far as possible.
- Switch off electrical appliances when not in use or during power outages.
- Do not fill ovens or stoves with fuel while they are burning. Avoid over-pumping a pressure stove, as it may burst. Wick stoves are safer than pressure stoves. Do not refill kerosene when the stove is lit. Always extinguish the flame and allow the stove to cool before refueling. Check for fuel leakage and repair it immediately. Store kerosene away from the stove.
- If you smell gas leakage in a room, do not light a matchstick or turn on an electrical switch.
- Inspect electrical and LPG equipment and rectify any defects. Use the appropriate fuse wire in the electrical circuit. Inform your LPG distributor even if you suspect a minor defect or leakage.
- Do not store LPG cylinders in the basement or living rooms.
- Do not open the LPG valve until you are ready to ignite the gas.
- Extinguish any unattended fire immediately.
- Do not leave any flame burning when you go to bed.
- Never smoke in bed, especially when sleepy. A cigarette dropped on a pillow or mattress can set the entire room on fire within minutes. Avoid smoking while reclining or lying down.
- Keep fire or its sources away from children. Do not allow children to play with matches. Educate children about fire hazards and prevention methods.
- Avoid wearing loose or synthetic clothing while handling fire. Do not lean over the fire.
- Seek valuable advice from the fire department for fire safety.
- In case of a fire, promptly inform the fire brigade by dialing 101 or 2440101, 244-0222-9. These numbers are applicable for Kolkata and its suburbs.
Following these guidelines is crucial for ensuring the safety of you and your family.