Ahmedabad: Sunday’s devastating fire at a home in Gyanda Society that claimed two lives has once again opened Pandora’s box on fire safety, negligence, poor awareness and illegal storage practices. Data shows that fire incidents in homes account for a dangerously high percentage of the a total fire incidents in the city. During 2022-23 and 2023-24, total of 994 fires were reported from homes, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s (AMC) annual reports show, indicating the high risk.
During 2022-23, a total of 2,057 fire incidents were reported in the city, with 540 or 26.25% of these occurring in homes. In 2023-24, there were 2,285 fires, of which 454 (19.55%) were in homes. The annual reports have grouped fire incidents under 17 categories, with a total of 2,145 incidents recorded in 2022-23 with two fatalities.
An AMC official said, “Fires are more common in homes. Sunday’s incident in the Jivraj Park area is a prime example. Use of the bungalow as a warehouse led to the fire.
Commercial use of residential properties, illegal shops and restaurants in societies, increase the risk of fire. There are no fire safety systems on these premises like in commercial buildings, which makes the fires more dangerous and difficult to control.”
The official added, “Many homes have lots of furniture, with many pieces made from flammable materials. Quality standards are overlooked in wiring and essential electrical appliances. Most fires in homes start with an electrical short circuit, and such furniture makes them deadlier.”
He stressed on use of standard wiring for appliances like air-conditioners. Kitchens especially are hazard zones, the official said, adding that milk boiling over on a lit gas stove too can cause a fire. “People should be extra cautious while lighting lamps or incense sticks and burning lamps shoud not be left unattended at night. Regular wiring checks and the use of circuit breakers are recommended,” he said.
Another civic official said use of residential premises for commercial purposes is prohibited. “Use and storage of materials that can cause fires should be avoided in residential buildings.
“Attention should be paid to small things like standard wiring, circuit breakers, and regular cleaning. Homes should be well ventilated and excessive clothes or other items should not be hoarded. Naked flames, such as lamps, incense sticks, and candles, should not be left unattended,” he said.