Human negligence behind most fire incidents, says Regional Fire Officer Chandan

Mysore/Mysuru: With summer temperatures soaring, Mysuru city has witnessed a rise in fire accidents, with incidents reported in houses, shops and warehouses, triggering concern among residents.

Officials said, electrical short circuits, negligence and the burning of dry grass and waste materials are among the main causes behind the fires.

In response, the Fire and Emergency Services Department has stepped up precautionary measures across the city.

Fire tenders have been deployed at key locations, emergency services strengthened and staff have been given special training to ensure quicker response during emergencies.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Regional Fire Officer P. Chandan said, Mysuru city and district have not witnessed any natural fire disasters in the past two years. “Every fire incident reported so far has been man-made. Negligence is the primary reason. Claims that gas explosions or summer heat alone cause fires are misleading. Such accidents can happen in any season,” he clarified.

He said, small fires lit to clear household waste often spiral out of control and turn into major incidents. “Most fires are caused by human negligence. By the time the situation worsens, people approach the Department for help. Citizens must first understand fire hazards properly. As a safety measure, every household should keep small fire extinguishers,” he stressed.

Recalling a major incident three years ago, Chandan said that a fire lit for land clearing in Lalithadripura had spread uncontrollably to Chamundi Hill. “Such incidents are more common between December and April. However, Mysuru has remained free of any major fire disaster in the past two years,” he added.

To create awareness among the public, the Department observed Fire Services Week from Apr. 14 to 20. Mock drills were conducted in schools, colleges and public places, where people were trained on emergency response measures, the use of fire extinguishers, evacuation procedures and safety protocols.

Earlier, the Fire Department could be reached through the toll-free number 101. The Government has now introduced the unified emergency helpline 112, which connects citizens to fire, Police and ambulance services.

Mysuru residents can also contact the Saraswathipuram Fire Control Room directly on Ph: 0821-2540970 for assistance.