Fire and Safety measures

By - Dr. Asangba Tzudir

In the Ao Naga traditional customary context, there existed a certain form of fine, and which is still in practice, called ‘kirongmet’ meaning fine imposed for burning house. The rationale behind the imposition of such fine was to set as deterrence since tragedy caused by fire would even result in burning down of the entire village if not contained in time. Traditionally, houses in villages, mostly situated on hilltops, were closely huddled together that any tragedy arising out of fire would result in many families being rendered homeless. Back in the days, when electricity had not reached villages, the only source of light was the kitchen fire and so the fireplace had to be kept alive all the time. The house materials being easily combustible, any careless use would be enough to set the house ablaze and spread across other households.  While it is painful to impose a fine on anyone in the aftermath of a fire disaster, but because of the huge risks involved, and with hardly any other preventive measures but to be painful witness, and so to set as deterrence, imposing fines seemed to be the best way to prevent fire tragedies in the traditional fold. 

Today, with rapid urbanization risks and tragedies of various forms including fire are on the rise, and for the safety of all where one or the other is at risk that could possibly arise from someone else’s carelessness, it calls not only for preventive or safety measures but also requires a thinking on the deterrence measures. The recent incidences of fire in dimapur, which have left many families affected raises certain concerns on the question of capability and efficacy on the combating measures. However, like the saying goes, prevention is better than cure, it is time to really focus on the preventive measures. Looking at the rapid urbanization, the housing and developmental pattern only adds to the risks. And while education can play a vital role in educating the masses, many a time, educating the masses alone do not yield the objective results.

While imposing fines for behaviors or conditions that increase the risk of, or cause house fires can help in prevention, but its effectiveness is also subject of fulfillment of other factors. Often, the threat of financial penalties can raise awareness about fire risks and which may in turn promote proactive safety measures. With emerging times which also adds to newer challenges and concerns, imposing fines can encourage house owners as well as tenants to adhere to fire safety regulations, such as maintaining smoke detectors, avoiding illegal electrical setups, or properly storing flammable materials. However, there are vulnerable localities where closely huddled houses built of highly inflammable materials require urgent attention by way of raising awareness besides periodical safety inspections where regulations and penalties are clearly outlined and communicated. However, enforcement needs to be consistent, if not, fines may lose their deterrent effect. 

On the whole, while fines can play a role, education, accessibility to safety resources and community engagement are equally important in preventing house fires.

(Dr. Asangba Tzudir writes weekly guest editorial for The Morung Express. Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com) 



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