Our Correspondent
KOHIMA, APRIL 8
To create awareness among the public population about taking safety measures and protections from fire-related incidents, the department of Fire and Emergency Services of Kohima district conducted a training and demonstration session in Kohima town’s local ground on Wednesday.
Attended by representatives from all the wards in Kohima town, the training, which aimed at imparting knowledge to the public about safety engagements, the personnel of the services gave discourse on reacting swiftly in times of emergency.
During the training programme, the fire personnel mentioned about the many inconveniences they come across as well as the immense pressure they have to overcome while performing their duty in times of emergencies.
According to Sub Inspector Kenny Khing, personnel of the fire department are always at the receiving end although they offer their best to ensure safety of the public. He maintained that the personnel were often blamed for ‘arriving late’.
“Most of the time, we arrive late because of the delay in receiving information,” he clarified further stating that the fire personnel are always ready 24X7, and just a phone call away.
Educating the colony representatives on public safety and response, Khing also urged them to react swiftly if any such cases of emergency occur in their locality.
“Inform us immediately once fire breaks out and then render your cooperation accordingly,” Khing said while he also requested the public to avoid unnecessary advices and interference.
Reminding about the many instances in Kohima where narrow roads becomes a big problem for the fire tenders to pass through, Khing told the colony members to clear the roads before the fire tenders arrive.
“As far as possible, we request you to clear the colony roads before we arrive at the spot. Time is usually wasted when roads are not cleared,” he said adding that fire safety is not only the responsibility of fire personnel but the society as a whole.
“Though we are uniformed personnel, our first and foremost priority is public safety and not on law and order,” he added.He also informed that a new fire station is coming up at the vicinity of Secretariat complex, which will soon be introduced for public service.
In times of fire break outs, one may call the office of the Fire & Emergency Services at 0370 2222952. While passing the information, the general public has also been advised to name the type of the house involved and the shortest possible route. Meanwhile, Khing has also made a sincere appeal to all concerned not to park their car infront of their office, below PHQ, Kohima.
The programme was followed by a demonstration on the use of fire extinguishers which was led by Assistant Sub inspector Dzüzevil Savi.
Citizens’ Factfile: HOW TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
• Pull the pin or safety clip. This will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
• Aim at the base of the fire. If you aim at the flames (which is frequently the temptation), the extinguishing agent will fly right through and do no good. You need to hit the source.
• Squeeze/open the top handle or lever. This depresses a button that releases the pressurized extinguishing agent in the extinguisher.
• Sweep from side to side until the fire is completely out. Start using the extinguisher from a safe distance away, and then move forward. Once the fire is out, keep an eye on the area in case it re-ignites.
What to Do in Case of a Fire (basics)
• When evacuating the building, be sure to feel doors for heat before opening them to be sure there is no fire danger on the other side.
• If there is smoke in the air, stay low to the ground, especially your head, to reduce inhalation exposure. Keep on hand on the wall to prevent disorientation and crawl to the nearest exit.
• Once away and clear from danger, call your report contact and inform them of the fire.
