Competition, awareness mark Fire Service Week
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 17 2025: With summer heat intensifying and strong winds sweeping, Manipur Fire Service director Laishram Nabachandra has urged the public to exercise extra caution to prevent fire-related mishaps.

Speaking to the media on Thursday during a visit to Johnstone Higher Secondary School, where an essay writing competition was held as part of the ongoing National Fire Service Week, Nabachandra noted that this time of year is especially prone to fire incidents due to high temperatures and windy conditions.

Water scarcity further complicates firefighting efforts, he added.

As mishaps can happen due to lack of caution, people need to remain alert and take preventive measures seriously, especially during this season, Nabachandra said.

He appealed to the public to follow key safety guidelines such as properly storing inflammable materials, shutting the gas regulator before turning off the stpye, extinguishing fires after burning waste, keeping inflammables away from children, and using only ISI-certified electrical appliances.

The essay competition, organised on the theme "Unite to Ignite, a Fire Safety India", aims to assess students' awareness and understanding of fire safety.

A total of 811 students from Class 10 to 12 participated across four centres in Imphal, Thoubal, Kakching, and Senapati.

The Imphal centre saw the highest turnout of 587 students.

Winners of the competition will be felicitated during an award distribution ceremony at the Manipur Fire Service headquarters on April 20, he added.

Meanwhile, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, observed Fire Safety Week 2025 on Thursday, aligning with the nationwide initiative taking place from 14 to April 20 .

As a part of the weeklong observance, RIMS organised, a smoke drill and fire safety demonstration in front of the General OPD Block.

The session was led by sub-officer Waikhom Rona of Manipur Fire Service, accompanied by other officers specialising in fire prevention.

Participants were guided on the proper use of fire extinguishers, fire suppression techniques, evacuation procedures, and how to remain calm and respond swiftly during fire emergencies.

Addressing the gathering, RIMS medical superintendent professor N Sanjib Singh, underscored the vital importance of regular fire drills in hospital settings, stating that safety of patients, staff, and visitors must be given the highest priority.

The programme saw active participation from heads of departments (HoDs), faculty members, and staff across various units and sections of RIMS, including Dental College, College of Nursing, hostels, Administrative Block, Engineering Department, Jubilee Hall, as well as personnel from the Manipur Security Services (MSS) and the Centre for Research on Environment and Development (CRED), RIMS, according to a press release from RIMS Hospital.

Awareness on fire safety and mock drills were also conducted at Unacco College Khongman; Classic Grande, Chingmeirong; and Angel Hospital, Uripok by Manipur Fire Service Department as a part of National Fire Safety Week.

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