INHS Asvini, a prominent naval hospital located in Mumbai, recently hosted a lecture and practical demonstration focusing on fire safety and prevention as part of National Fire Service Week. This annual observance, running from April 14 to 20, honors the courageous firefighters who perished in a devastating ship explosion at the Mumbai dockyard in 1944. It also serves to enhance awareness about fire safety protocols and measures.
Leading the event was Senior Station Fire Officer Mr. HS Shinde, accompanied by his dedicated team from Colaba Fire Station. They provided an engaging lecture that underscored the necessity of following safety protocols, particularly in high-risk environments like naval installations. Participants not only listened to the informative talk but also engaged in hands-on training, where they learned how to effectively handle various types of fire extinguishers and gained critical skills for the safe evacuation and transport of casualties during fire emergencies.
The event saw active participation from naval personnel, who were dressed in their crisp white uniforms. A group photo taken with fire trucks highlighted their involvement in this significant initiative. Additionally, a segment of the program was devoted to practical training, wherein officers demonstrated how to proficiently use fire extinguishers to address simulated fire scenarios, further enhancing their preparedness.
This initiative emphasizes the paramount importance of fire safety readiness. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research in 2020 found that engaging in hands-on fire safety drills can cut emergency response times by as much as 30%, considerably increasing the likelihood of saving lives during fire-related incidents. Events like that held at INHS Asvini are essential in cultivating a culture of safety and readiness among personnel, equipping them with the tools and techniques needed to effectively manage emergencies and contribute to a safer fire environment.
