Ahead of the Deepavali festival, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Response and Fire Services Department has released a comprehensive set of fire safety guidelines, urging both firecracker shop owners and the general public to adhere strictly to these precautions to prevent any unfortunate incidents. In a proactive measure, police teams are actively conducting surprise inspections and organizing awareness programs in Eluru and Krishna districts, aiming to educate residents on essential fire safety measures.
G. Srinivasulu, Additional Director of Fire Services, emphasized the importance of public vigilance. “We strongly advise everyone to purchase only high-quality firecrackers from licensed shops and, crucially, to avoid storing them inside their homes,” he stated on Saturday. He also cautioned families against placing crackers near oil lamps or in puja rooms, which are common areas for lighting during the festival.
Parents are encouraged to supervise their children closely when they are lighting crackers, ensuring that celebrations take place in open, safe areas away from residential structures. Mr. Srinivasulu highlighted the need to refrain from using firecrackers that produce excessive noise or smoke, especially in areas where vulnerable individuals such as patients, the elderly, or infants might be present.
For those in rural areas, a specific warning has been issued against bursting crackers near haystacks or on roads. Villagers are advised to keep a bucket of water or sand readily available as a first-response measure during celebrations. Furthermore, all residents are strictly urged not to ignite crackers near highly flammable locations like petrol pumps or LPG godowns.
“I sincerely request everyone to embrace these fire safety precautions, ensuring a Deepavali celebration filled with happiness and responsibility,” Mr. Srinivasulu added.
Complementing these efforts, police teams across Eluru and Krishna districts have initiated raids on various firecracker shops in areas including Jangareddygudem, Eluru, and Nuzvid. These operations are designed to enforce safety regulations and prevent potential mishaps. Led by Superintendent of Police K. Pratap Shiva Kishore, Eluru DSP D. Sravan Kumar, and other senior officers, these teams are also actively conducting educational programs on the vital do’s and don’ts of fire safety, ensuring a safer festive season for everyone.