SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services Department has issued a winter safety advisory, urging people to exercise caution while using heating appliances, Bukharis, Kangris, LPG heaters and electric blankets to prevent fire incidents, suffocation and loss of life and property.
In an advisory issued by the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services, J&K, Director Alok Kumar, an IPS officer, stressed the need for following safety measures as the use of heating equipment increases during the winter season.
The department has advised people to use only good-quality, standard-marked heating appliances and ensure that all equipment is properly checked before use. Electric heaters and other heating appliances should be switched off and unplugged before going to bed or leaving home.
Emphasising precautions while using LPG heaters, the department has advised maintaining proper ventilation and cautioned against leaving such appliances running while sleeping or when a room is unattended. People have also been asked to regularly inspect LPG pipes, regulators and connections for leakage or damage and switch off cylinder valves and stove knobs when not in use.
The advisory calls for careful handling of Kangris, which should be kept in stable and safe positions and never left unattended or placed near bedding, curtains and other combustible materials.
It has also warned against burning or storing charcoal in enclosed spaces, attics or poorly ventilated rooms. Ashes and embers must be completely extinguished before disposal.
Regarding electric blankets, the department has advised people to use good-quality products, regularly check for damaged wiring and overheating, and follow manufacturers’ instructions.
The advisory further cautions against overloading electrical sockets and extension boards. It recommends using properly rated fuses, miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and residual current devices (ELCBs/RCCBs), while defective wiring should be repaired only by qualified electricians. Electrical wires should also be kept away from hot surfaces, water and damp areas.
People have been advised against storing dry grass, firewood, waste wood, hay, paper and other combustible materials inside residential buildings. Such materials should be kept in isolated locations away from houses and heating appliances.
On kitchen safety, the department has urged people to remain present while cooking and switch off the stove even when leaving the kitchen for a short period. Combustible materials should be kept away from open flames.
The advisory also warns against drying clothes, blankets and other combustible items over or near heaters and Bukharis. People have been asked not to throw burning cigarette butts or matchsticks carelessly.
The department has further recommended keeping suitable fire extinguishers and buckets filled with water or sand readily available near heating and cooking areas. Staircases, corridors and escape routes should remain unobstructed to facilitate evacuation during emergencies.
It has also stressed the importance of proper ventilation while using Bukharis, LPG heaters and other fuel-burning appliances to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases and the risk of suffocation.
In case of a fire incident, the public has been asked to immediately contact Fire and Emergency Services through the toll-free emergency number 101.
People can also reach the Srinagar Control Room at 0194-2452155 or 0194-2452222, and the Jammu Control Room at 0191-2457705 or 0191-2435283. The nearest fire station may also be contacted for immediate assistance.
