Udupi: With incidents of fire accidents reportedly increasing in commercial establishments and residential complexes within the limits of the Udupi City Municipal Council, municipal authorities have issued a public advisory urging citizens and business owners to adopt strict fire safety measures.
The advisory comes amid rising temperatures in the city, which officials say could further increase the risk of fire-related incidents during the summer season.
In a press release, the commissioner of the Udupi City Municipal Council appealed to commercial establishments, residential complexes and industrial units to strengthen safety systems and ensure adequate fire prevention arrangements on their premises.
Fire safety systems made mandatory
According to the advisory, owners of commercial shops, apartment complexes, hospitals, industries, scrap shops and similar establishments have been instructed to install fire hydrant systems and maintain essential fire safety infrastructure.
Authorities said buildings with large public movement or storage facilities should ensure that fire extinguishers, hydrants and emergency response mechanisms are functional and accessible at all times.
The commissioner stressed that preventive measures are crucial in avoiding accidents that could lead to loss of life and property.
Officials noted that many recent fire incidents in urban areas have been linked to inadequate safety precautions, faulty electrical systems and improper storage of inflammable materials.
The advisory has therefore emphasised the need for regular inspections and maintenance of electrical wiring, firefighting equipment and emergency exits in commercial and residential buildings.
Special caution for warehouses and industries
Particular attention has been directed towards warehouses and industrial establishments storing chemical substances and other inflammable materials.
Municipal authorities warned that such units must strictly follow precautionary measures to prevent accidental fires and explosions.
The advisory stated that storage facilities handling chemicals, fuel, plastic materials and other combustible goods should ensure proper ventilation, secure storage practices and compliance with fire safety norms.
Officials also instructed managements to maintain clear access routes for emergency vehicles and avoid illegal or unsafe storage arrangements inside buildings.
The commissioner stated that negligence in maintaining safety standards could lead to severe consequences during emergencies, especially in densely populated urban areas.
Staff training and awareness emphasised
Apart from installing fire safety systems, establishments have also been directed to provide fire safety awareness and emergency response training to employees and staff members.
Authorities said proper training can help workers respond quickly and effectively during emergencies, thereby reducing the risk of panic and minimising damage.
Business owners have been encouraged to conduct regular mock drills and educate employees about evacuation procedures, handling of firefighting equipment and emergency contact systems.
Officials pointed out that immediate response during the initial stages of a fire can often prevent major disasters.
The municipal council also appealed to residential apartment associations and commercial building owners to create awareness among residents and tenants regarding fire prevention practices.
Public urged to cooperate
The commissioner urged all residents, traders and business operators in Udupi city to cooperate with the municipal authorities in ensuring public safety.
Authorities said collective responsibility and strict adherence to safety norms are essential to prevent fire accidents in rapidly growing urban areas.
The advisory comes at a time when temperatures in several parts of Karnataka remain high, increasing the possibility of electrical overloads and accidental fires.
Officials reiterated that preventive measures, regular maintenance and public awareness remain the most effective ways to reduce fire-related risks.
The Udupi City Municipal Council stated that it would continue monitoring safety compliance and urged establishments to immediately address deficiencies in fire protection systems.