Awareness on fire prevention

In commemoration of the fire service week, the state’s fire and emergency services today carried out an awareness programme on fire prevention and safety measures here in the state capital.

The awareness programme touched CRPF junction Lerie, Mohonkhola junction, PHQ junction, Old MLA Hostel Junction, New NST, Keziekie market, Tinpati and High school junction.
Similar awareness programme was also conducted in Dimapur, Mokokchung, Tuensang, Zunheboto, Mon, Wokha, Phek, Chumukedima and Kiphire.

The significance of the fire service week dates back to the fateful yet historical day on April 14, 1944 at Bombay Dockyard popularly known as the “Great Bombay Dock Fire.” It was on this day that a massive and devastating fire broke out on a ship the “S.S Fort Strikene” which was carrying 1200 tons of explosives. Consequently, 336 persons died and 1040 were injured including 66 fire service personnel. There were enormous fires across 100 acres and 14 other ships were also subsequently set ablaze by the explosions, which were recorded 1000 miles away in Shimla, Firemen along with military and naval personnel eventually extinguished the fires. Norman Coombs, the chief fire officer of the Bombay Fire Brigade was also badly burnt in the fire and was awarded the “Bar to the King’s Police and Fire service medal” for his gallantry, a distinction normally awarded posthumously. The “Fire Service Day” is celebrated on every April 14 in commemoration of the 66 gallant officers and firemen of the Bombay Fire Brigade who laid down their lives in fighting the great fire.

This day is also observed as “Martyrs Day” to pay homage to those brave firemen who lost their lives while performing their duties. This day is also set aside for mass awareness campaigns on fire hazards and safety measures by conducting public education programmes through various methods such as fire safety and evacuation drills, public lecturers, demonstrations, mock drills etc. across the country.
The fire service week will go on till April 20.