Fire safety awareness a burning issue

During the winter season, lighting a fire with straw, wood or dry leaves to keep warm is a common practice in both rural and urban areas of our country. While this traditional method provides temporary relief from the cold, it often turns into a cause of serious accidents due to carelessness and a lack of awareness. Every winter, news of burn injuries and even fatalities reminds us how dangerous uncontrolled fire can be.

In many areas, women and children are particularly vulnerable. While lighting fires, loose clothing such as sarees, shawls and sweaters often catch fire accidentally. Synthetic and woollen fabrics ignite quickly and stick to the skin, making burn injuries more severe. Moreover, during winter the air remains dry, and even a small spark from a fire, stove or mosquito coil placed near a bed can rapidly spread to nearby homes, haystacks or household items.

Low-income families suffer the most from such incidents. The cost of medical treatment for burn victims is high and many families are pushed into financial distress while also trying to rebuild their damaged homes and belongings. Although similar accidents occurred in the past, the extent of damage has increased due to higher population density and inadequate awareness about fire safety.

The risk becomes even greater when people fall asleep near open fires or leave children unattended. To prevent such tragedies, controlled and cautious use of fire is essential. Maintaining a safe distance, wearing cotton clothing, keeping children away from flames and ensuring that fires are completely extinguished with water after use can save lives.

Everyone must remain vigilant so that the warmth of winter does not turn into a lifelong tragedy.

Ashikujaman Syed

International Business Development Manager,

Shenzhen Kangshengbao Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Shenzhen, China.

syedashikujaman@yahoo.com