J&K records 6,031 fire incidents in 2024, 590 cases in Srinagar alone: Dir F&ES

Property losses exceed ₹233 crore in Srinagar, with over ₹688 crore worth of assets saved

SRINAGAR: In Jammu and Kashmir, over 6031 fire incidents have been reported since the beginning of this year; however, at the same time, there has been a sharp decline in structural fire incidents in Kashmir, officials at Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) Kashmir said.
Talking to The News Now, Assistant Director Fire and Emergency Services Kashmir Er. Aqib Hussain Mir said in the year 2022, there are 5833 fire incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. In the year 2023, there was a decline in the number of incidents in fire accidents, with Jammu and Kashmir recording 4451 incidents.
Adding that he said this year so far 6031 fire incidents were reported in Jammu and Kashmir, however, it is important to note here that there has been decline in structural fire incidents in Kashmir.
"The increase in fire incidents this year can be attributed to the prolonged dry weather, which has led to frequent fires in dry grasses and Chinar trees, he said.
While the total number of fire incidents has increased, there is a significant decline in structural fire incidents in Kashmir, which is a positive trend," Er. Aqib noted
Asked about the Srinagar, Er. Aqib said this year, there were 590 fire incidents in Srinagar. During those 590 fire incidents, property over more than Rs 233 Cr were lost, while at the same time, property worth more than Rs 688 Cr were saved by the Fire and Emergency Services.
Not only that more than 2500 awareness programs were carried out by Fire & Emergency Services across Jammu and Kashmir, Er. Aqib said. Adding that he said awareness programs were held at public places, schools colleges and universities.
"With the onset of winter, residents must ensure chimneys and heating systems are cleaned and inspected regularly to avoid accidental fires," said Er. Aqib Hussain Mir.
He emphasized that regular maintenance of heating appliances, particularly those used heavily during the cold months, is essential to prevent potential hazards.
Highlighting the importance of electrical safety, he noted, "We strongly recommend using certified and safe electrical appliances and avoiding the use of substandard equipment, which can lead to short circuits." He also cautioned against overloading electrical circuits, a common issue during winter when multiple heating devices are in use simultaneously.
Er. Aqib also stressed the risks posed by open flames during the season. "People should be mindful of open flames like candles and gas heaters, especially during power outages, as they can pose significant fire risks if unattended," he said. He advised vigilance, particularly in homes with children or elderly residents.
To enhance safety awareness, he urged families to be proactive. "It’s essential to educate family members about fire safety measures, such as keeping fire extinguishers accessible and knowing emergency contact numbers," Er. Aqib highlighted. He added that such preparedness could make a critical difference in emergencies.