Telangana Fire Services sensitises school managements on fire safety, disaster preparedness

Hyderabad, Jul 14 (PTI) Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence Department Director General Vikram Singh Mann on Tuesday urged school managements to make fire safety an integral part of school administration through regular inspections, maintenance of fire protection systems, mock drills and continuous awareness among students and staff. Speaking after inaugurating a Fire Safety Awareness Programme for School Managements here, Mann emphasised that fire safety is not merely a statutory requirement but a moral responsibility towards every child entrusted to educational institutions, according to an official release. To highlight the seriousness of the issue, the Director General presented case studies of major fire accidents that occurred in schools and school dormitories across the country. Participants were sensitised to common fire safety deficiencies observed during inspections, preventive measures, emergency evacuation procedures, maintenance of fire protection systems and the responsibilities of school management in ensuring a safe learning environment. Special emphasis was laid on fire safety in school dormitories, in view of the recent fatal hostel fire incidents reported in different parts of the country. School managements were advised to ensure functional fire detection and alarm systems, unobstructed emergency exits, safe electrical installations, regular fire drills, adequate supervision of residential students and strict adherence to fire safety protocols. The department reiterated its commitment to working closely with educational institutions to strengthen fire safety awareness, improve preparedness and foster a culture of prevention, thereby ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for every child in Telangana, the release said. PTI VVK VVK ADB