Better to ensure there’s no fire in the first place

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The BMC on Tuesday paid homage to firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, marking National Fire Service Day with a solemn ceremony at the Mumbai Fire Brigade Headquarters in Byculla cited reports.

The ceremony also marked the beginning of Fire Service Week, to be observed from April 14 to April 20, aimed at raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

An audio presentation recounting the sacrifices made by firefighters, particularly during major disasters in Mumbai, was also played. The report said in an interesting twist that evolving challenges faced by the Mumbai Fire Brigade were highlighted like the Ghatkopar hoarding collapse and monorail-related emergencies.

While tributes and celebrating our brave firefighters are welcome, we can put real meaning into this by becoming fire aware ourselves. This fire service week, let us begin from home. Stay safe in the kitchen, and get home appliances checked and serviced at the correct time. Begin with your home and immediate environment.

Push your housing societies to install basic firefighting equipment within the housing complex. Members must also show interest and inclination; this cannot be left to a few. Keep passages and corridors clear so that people can move out quickly in case of emergency.

Often, we see building exits ‘blocked' through makeshift structures. Within the building itself, cycles, cupboards, and paraphernalia may make it difficult for people to move easily. The point is to become aware, ensure fire compliance when we can and ensure safety at a fundamental level. This is how we can truly celebrate our firefighters.