Winter fire safety matters

With winter setting in across Jammu and Kashmir, the use of heating appliances, Bukharis, Kangris and LPG heaters has become an essential part of daily life. However, the increased dependence on these heating arrangements also brings the risk of fire incidents, suffocation and loss of life and property. The winter fire safety advisory issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Fire and Emergency Services Department is therefore timely and deserves serious attention from the public. Every winter, incidents involving heating appliances and careless handling of fire pose a threat to households, particularly in residential areas where people often use traditional and modern heating arrangements in enclosed spaces. What is often treated as a minor act of negligence can have devastating consequences. Leaving an electric heater switched on overnight, operating an LPG heater without proper ventilation or keeping a Kangri close to bedding can turn a routine winter practice into a serious hazard. The department has rightly emphasised the need for proper ventilation while using fuel-burning appliances. Carbon monoxide and other harmful gases can accumulate in poorly ventilated rooms, posing a serious threat to occupants. People must also regularly check LPG connections, avoid overloading electrical sockets and ensure that defective wiring is repaired by qualified electricians. Traditional heating arrangements such as Kangris and Bukharis require equal caution. Burning charcoal in enclosed spaces and placing embers near combustible materials can lead to fatal accidents. Households must avoid drying clothes near heaters and never leave cooking unattended. However, safety cannot depend on advisories alone. Public awareness campaigns, inspections and community-level preparedness are equally important. Every household should keep basic firefighting equipment accessible and ensure that emergency exits remain unobstructed. Winter brings its own hardships, but preventable fire tragedies should not become another seasonal concern. A little caution and responsible behaviour can save lives and protect homes.