Fire Safety Preparedness Stressed to Prevent Loss of Lives
Rescue and safety experts have stressed the need for effective fire safety measures, regular inspections, and practical evacuation drills in public and private buildings to minimise loss of life and property during fire emergencies.
Talking to media on Friday, Rescue and Safety Officer Arshad Bhutta said that fire safety should be treated as a continuous responsibility rather than a formality, urging building owners and managements to ensure functional fire alarms, appropriate fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and clearly marked emergency exits.
He stated that regular evacuation drills are essential to prepare people for emergencies, as panic and confusion could significantly hamper evacuation during an actual fire incident.
“When people have already practised an evacuation procedure, they are more likely to remain organised and move towards designated safe areas instead of creating panic and confusion.”
Arshad Bhutta emphasised that firefighting equipment should not only be installed but also regularly inspected, tested, and maintained to ensure its functionality when required. He advised that emergency exits, stairways, and corridors must remain clear at all times and never be used for storing merchandise, furniture, or other materials.
He recommended occupants to use designated emergency exits and stairs during a fire instead of lifts, as elevators could become unsafe due to smoke, power failure, or malfunction. He suggested that evacuees proceed to a predetermined assembly point after leaving the building, where staff could conduct a headcount and determine if anyone remained inside.
The safety officer stated that evacuation drills should begin with activation of the fire alarm and include an orderly evacuation under the guidance of trained staff. These drills should assess the accessibility of emergency exits, the time required to evacuate the premises, staff responsibilities, and the suitability of the designated assembly point. He added that management should review every drill and identify weaknesses that require corrective measures.
He noted that hospitals require special fire safety arrangements due to patients who cannot evacuate without assistance, including those in intensive care, elderly people, children, and persons with disabilities. He advised hospital staff to receive practical training in patient evacuation, movement priorities, and coordination with emergency responders. He further pointed out that hospitals should incorporate oxygen supplies, medical equipment, and other potential hazards into their fire safety plans.
Regarding markets and commercial buildings, Arshad Bhutta highlighted the increased fire risk from electrical overloading, faulty wiring, generators, gas cylinders, combustible materials, and densely packed merchandise. He urged shopkeepers and market administrations to ensure regular inspection of electrical systems and avoid overloading.