Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Wokha conducted a fire safety awareness programme on April 21 at the APMC area in Wokha village, marking the conclusion of the annual Fire Service Week, which is observed from April 14 to April 20.
The programme was part of Fire Safety Awareness Month, observed throughout April to educate and prepare the public for fire emergencies.
The awareness event was held at APMC due to the high concentration of hotels in the area, which are considered more vulnerable to fire hazards, especially due to the use of gas cylinders and flammable materials in cooking and other operations.
Speaking at the programme, second officer in charge of Wokha Fire Station, Thenuosilelie Pielie informed that seven fire incidents took place in Wokha district this year, out of which five were jungle fires.
He urged the public to immediately inform the Fire and Emergency Services for any sign of fire and to not attempt to contain the blaze on their own, as delays in reporting often lead to larger damage and higher losses.
He said that by the time the fire service is contacted, it is often too late to prevent serious damage. He also appealed to the public of Wokha to allow free passage to fire tankers, highlighting that most delays occur due to traffic congestion and wrong parking.
The programme focused on equipping residents with knowledge about handling fire emergencies. Participants were taught about different types of fire based on the materials involved and the suitable extinguishing methods. Residents expressed gratitude to the Fire and Emergency Services team for organising an informative and helpful event.