URBAN FIRE(UNDERSTANDING FIRE INICIDENTS IN URBAN AREAS

URBAN FIRE

1. URBAN FIRE Govind Tiwari Understanding Fire Incidents in Urban Areas

2. Definition of Urban Fire Urban Fire refers to any uncontrolled fire that occurs within an urban environment, typically involving residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. These fires often spread quickly due to the high density of structures and population in cities.

3. Overview of Increasing Fire Incidents in Cities Relevance of the Topic in Modern India 3 Urbanization has led to rapid construction and expansion, often compromising safety. Increased use of electricity, gas, and flammable materials has heightened fire risks. Reports show a steady rise in fire incidents in metropolitan areas, particularly in densely populated and industrial zones. Example: The fire in Delhi’s Anaj Mandi area (2019) which claimed 43 lives is a case of poor safety measures. Growing urban population : With more people moving to cities, the risk of fire incidents increases. Inadequate fire safety systems in older buildings and slums. Economic impact : Urban fires result in significant financial losses, affecting both individual families and businesses. Environmental concerns : Urban fires can release harmful pollutants into the air, contributing to environmental degradation. Fire incidents reflect the need for better urban planning, fire safety regulations, and awareness , making this topic highly relevant for India’s future development

4. Causes of Urban Fire 4 Electrical faults (short circuits, overloads) Human negligence (unattended stoves, smoking) Industrial accidents Inadequate fire safety measures in buildings Gas cylinder explosions Fireworks and Festivities Improper Waste Management Faulty Appliances and Equipment

5. Impact of Urban Fire 5 Loss of life and property. Economic damage (business closures, property destruction). Social and emotional trauma to victims. Strain on emergency services and fire departments. Environmental Damage

6. 6 FIRE HAZARDS: INDIAN SCENARIO Fire is one of the most frequently occurring disasters in India, especially in the hot dry summer months. The country has been a victim of fi re incidents numerous times across all states. The urban areas, especially the towns and cities, along with the factories and industries are extremely vulnerable to fi re. The highest number of deaths in the country is due to fire hazards. Around 83,872 fire incidents have been recorded in India during the year 2014 to 2018 (Ministry of Home Affairs; Department of States; National Crime Records Bureau, 2018).

7. 7 FIRE HAZARDS: INDIAN SCENARIO Fire is one of the most frequently occurring disasters in India, especially in the hot dry summer months. The country has been a victim of fi re incidents numerous times across all states. The urban areas, especially the towns and cities, along with the factories and industries are extremely vulnerable to fi re. The highest number of deaths in the country is due to fire hazards. Around 83,872 fire incidents have been recorded in India during the year 2014 to 2018 (Ministry of Home Affairs; Department of States; National Crime Records Bureau, 2018).

8. 8 FIRE HAZARDS: INDIAN SCENARIO

9. 9 FIRE HAZARDS: INDIAN SCENARIO

10. 1. Uphaar Cinema Fire (Delhi, 1997) 2. Surat Coaching Center Fire (Gujarat, 2019) 10 Major Urban Fire Incidents in India Incident : A fire engulfed a four-story commercial building that housed a coaching center, trapping students. Casualties : 22 students died, many from jumping off the building to escape the flames. Key Causes : Lack of fire exits, flammable building materials, poor fire preparedness. Aftermath : This tragedy led to nationwide calls for better fire safety enforcement, particularly in educational institutions . Incident : A massive fire broke out in the Uphaar Cinema hall during the screening of a movie due to an electrical fault in the transformer room. Casualties : 59 people died and over 100 were injured, primarily due to asphyxiation. Key Causes : Poor evacuation routes, blocked exits, lack of fire safety equipment. Aftermath : The incident led to legal reforms, including more stringent fire safety regulations in public buildings. The Netflix series  Trial by Fire  is about the Uphaar Cinema fire in Delhi in 1997

11. 3. Kamala Mills Fire (Mumbai, 2017) 4. AMRI Hospital Fire (Kolkata, 2011) 11 Major Urban Fire Incidents in India Incident : A fire broke out in the Kamala Mills compound in a rooftop restaurant, spreading quickly due to illegal constructions. Casualties : 14 people died, mostly due to smoke inhalation. Key Causes : Overcrowded space, non-compliance with fire safety regulations, flammable decorations. Aftermath : Increased inspections of restaurants and pubs in Mumbai for fire safety compliance. Incident : A deadly fire broke out in the basement of AMRI Hospital, spreading to upper floors where patients were trapped. Casualties : 89 people died, mostly patients who couldn’t escape. Key Causes : Negligence in storing flammable materials, poor emergency response, inadequate evacuation procedures. Aftermath : Legal action against hospital authorities and greater focus on fire safety in healthcare institutions.

12. Urban Fire Challenges in India 12 1. Rapid Urbanization and Unplanned Growth Uncontrolled expansion : Fast-paced urban growth leads to construction in high-risk zones without proper fire safety considerations. Unregulated settlements : Slums and informal housing lack basic infrastructure, including fire safety measures. High population density : Crowded spaces increase the risk of fire spreading quickly and causing greater damage. 2. Lack of Fire Safety Awareness Public negligence : Many people are unaware of fire risks and how to prevent or respond to fire incidents. Limited fire drills and education : Insufficient focus on fire safety education in schools, offices, and public spaces. Cultural practices : Some traditional practices (e.g., using open flames for cooking) heighten the risk of fires in urban settings. 3. Poor Enforcement of Building Codes Non-compliance : Builders often ignore fire safety regulations to cut costs, resulting in unsafe structures. Corruption and leniency : Lack of strict enforcement and inspections, with authorities sometimes turning a blind eye to violations. Illegal constructions : Many buildings, especially in commercial areas, are constructed without adhering to fire safety norms. 4. Inadequate Fire Services and Infrastructure Limited resources : Many Indian cities lack adequate fire stations, fire engines, and equipment for firefighting. Delayed response times : Congested urban areas and traffic issues make it difficult for fire services to reach fire scenes quickly. Insufficient manpower : Fire departments are often understaffed, unable to meet the growing demands of expanding urban areas. Old equipment : Many fire departments still rely on outdated firefighting tools and technology, reducing their effectiveness in managing large-scale urban fires .

13. Role of Fire Services in Urban Fire Management 13 1. Fire Prevention and Risk Assessment Inspections and audits : Regular inspections of commercial, residential, and industrial buildings to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Risk assessment : Identifying high-risk areas (e.g., densely populated slums, industrial zones) and taking preventive measures to minimize fire hazards. 2. Firefighting and Emergency Response Rapid response : Ensuring quick and efficient mobilization of fire trucks and personnel to fire incidents. Rescue operations : Evacuating people trapped in buildings, especially in high-rise structures, using ladders, breathing equipment, and rescue tools. Fire suppression : Utilizing advanced firefighting equipment, including hoses, water cannons, and chemical extinguishers, to contain and suppress fires. 3. Capacity Building and Training Firefighter training : Regularly training firefighters in advanced firefighting techniques, rescue operations, and the use of modern firefighting technology. Public education : Conducting fire drills and awareness campaigns in schools, offices, and residential areas to prepare the public for emergencies.

14. Role of Fire Services in Urban Fire Management 14 4. Emergency Infrastructure Management Fire hydrant systems : Installing and maintaining a robust network of fire hydrants across cities to ensure a steady water supply during emergencies. Fire alarms and detectors : Ensuring that all buildings are equipped with functioning fire alarms, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Communication systems : Coordinating between fire departments, police, hospitals, and disaster management teams for efficient emergency response. 5. Policy Advocacy and Regulatory Support Policy enforcement : Fire services play a crucial role in advising local governments on fire safety laws and ensuring their enforcement. Advocating for modern infrastructure : Pushing for the adoption of new technology like fire-resistant building materials, automated fire detection systems, and smart firefighting tools such as drones.

15. Role of Technology in Urban Fire Prevention 15 1. Advanced Fire Detection Systems Smoke and heat detectors : Smart detectors that alert occupants and emergency services in real-time, minimizing response time. Automated fire alarm systems : Integration with building management systems to provide instant alerts and initiate evacuation protocols. 2. Smart Firefighting Tools Drones : Used for aerial surveillance of fire incidents, assessing fire spread, and locating trapped individuals. Thermal imaging cameras : Help firefighters see through smoke and identify hotspots in a building. 3. Building Safety Technology Fire-resistant materials : Use of modern, non-combustible building materials to reduce fire spread and damage. Sprinkler systems : Automated systems that activate in case of a fire, controlling its spread until emergency services arrive.

16. 16 Role of Technology in Urban Fire Prevention 4. Data Analytics and AI Risk assessment : AI-driven analytics to identify high-risk areas based on historical data, weather patterns, and building conditions. Predictive modeling : Using data to predict potential fire outbreaks and strategize preventive measures. 5. Communication and Coordination Tools Mobile apps : Apps for the public to report fire incidents quickly, receive alerts, and access fire safety information. Incident management software : Fire departments use software to manage resources, track incidents, and coordinate responses efficiently. 6. Public Awareness Platforms Social media campaigns : Utilizing platforms to educate the public about fire safety tips and emergency preparedness. Online training modules : Offering virtual training sessions on fire safety for individuals and organizations.

17. 17 Fire Safety Regulations and Policies in India 1. National Building Code of India (NBC) Overview : The NBC outlines fire safety standards for buildings, including design, construction, and occupancy requirements. Key Provisions : Minimum fire resistance ratings for materials used in construction. Specifications for fire exits, staircases, and emergency lighting. 2. State Fire Services Acts Role : Each state in India has its own fire service act, which governs fire safety regulations and the functioning of fire departments. Enforcement : These acts empower fire authorities to conduct inspections, issue fire safety certificates, and enforce compliance with safety norms. 3. Fire Safety Audit Guidelines Purpose : Guidelines for conducting fire safety audits in buildings to assess compliance with fire safety norms. Components : Evaluation of fire alarms, extinguishers, escape routes, and staff training on fire response.

18. 18 Fire Safety Regulations and Policies in India 4. Disaster Management Act, 2005 Framework : Establishes a framework for disaster management, including provisions for fire emergencies. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) : Responsible for formulating policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management, including fire incidents. 5. Industrial Safety Regulations Factories Act, 1948 : Includes provisions for fire safety measures in industrial settings to prevent fire hazards and ensure worker safety. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines apply to industries to minimize fire risks. 6. Gaps in Implementation Lack of awareness : Many builders and property owners are unaware of existing fire safety regulations. Inconsistent enforcement : Variability in the enforcement of regulations across states and localities. Corruption and negligence : Corruption can lead to lax enforcement of fire safety measures, allowing unsafe buildings to operate.

19. 19 Urban Fire Prevention Strategies 1. Public Awareness Campaigns Education programs : Conduct workshops and seminars to educate citizens about fire safety practices and emergency response. Media outreach : Use social media, television, and print media to disseminate fire safety tips and information on prevention. 2. Regular Fire Drills and Training Conducting fire drills : Implement regular fire drills in schools, offices, and residential complexes to familiarize occupants with evacuation procedures. Training sessions : Offer training for staff in workplaces on the use of fire extinguishers and emergency protocols. 3. Retrofitting Older Buildings Upgrading safety measures : Retrofitting older structures with modern fire safety systems, such as sprinklers, alarms, and fire-resistant materials. Compliance audits : Conduct audits of older buildings to ensure they meet current fire safety standards.

20. 20 Urban Fire Prevention Strategies 4. Community Engagement Neighborhood watch programs : Establish local groups to monitor and report potential fire hazards in their areas. Community workshops : Organize workshops to teach residents about fire prevention techniques and emergency preparedness. 5. Enhanced Building Regulations Strict enforcement of codes : Strengthen enforcement of fire safety regulations in new constructions and renovations. Fire safety certifications : Require fire safety inspections and certifications before occupancy permits are granted. 6. Collaboration with Fire Services Partnerships with local fire departments : Work with fire services to develop community-specific fire prevention strategies and resources. Feedback mechanisms : Create channels for residents to provide feedback on fire safety measures and concerns. 7. Technology Integration Smart fire detection systems : Promote the use of automated fire alarms and detection systems in residential and commercial buildings. Mobile apps for reporting : Encourage the use of mobile applications for reporting fire hazards and incidents quickly.

21. 21 Conclusion Summary of Key Points Urban Fire Challenges : Rapid urbanization, lack of awareness, poor enforcement of regulations, and inadequate fire services contribute to the rising risk of urban fires in India. Role of Fire Services : Fire departments play a vital role in prevention, response, and recovery, but require better resources and training to manage growing urban fire risks effectively. Technological Advancements : Integrating technology in fire detection, response, and public awareness can significantly enhance urban fire prevention efforts. Community Engagement : The involvement of local communities is crucial in fostering a culture of fire safety, promoting awareness, and supporting vulnerable populations. Call for Better Urban Fire Management and Prevention Strengthening Regulations : There is an urgent need for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations and regular inspections of buildings. Public Education Initiatives : Ongoing education and training programs for citizens can empower them to take proactive steps in fire prevention. Investment in Infrastructure : Increasing investment in fire services, including modern equipment and technology, will enhance response capabilities. Closing Thoughts on Improving Fire Safety in Indian Cities Improving fire safety in urban areas requires a collaborative effort involving government agencies, fire services, community organizations, and residents. By prioritizing fire safety and implementing effective strategies, we can create safer urban environments, ultimately reducing the frequency and impact of fire incidents in Indian cities.

22. THANK YOU FIRE,WATER & GOVERNMENT KNOW NOTHING OF MERCY.