Significant rise in fire accidents in Kozhikode put rescue squads on toes

With summer temperature climbing in Kerala, the Fire and Rescue Services has reported a significant rise in fire accidents over the recent months, prompting the firefighters and building owners to call for increased caution and preparedness. 

Latest data compiled by the rescue squads point out that around 160 fire outbreaks, including major and minor ones, were reported within the last 30 days in Kozhikode district. These included a mix of residential, commercial vehicle and water-related fires and marked a noticeable rise compared with the same period last year.

Day time heat coupled with dry conditions, has been identified as a key reason in the increase. In many cases, small sparks or residual embers have rapidly escalated into larger blazes due to dry vegetation and combustible waste. A senior officer with the Rescue squad noted that the trend was found aligning with seasonal temperature shifts that had coincided with higher fire calls.

“We responded to an unusually high number of calls within the last one month. He combination of rising ambient temperatures and dry materials has created conditions where even minor ignitions sources can lead to extensive fires,” the officer said. He said the residents and traders had already been asked to avoid burning waster and ensure proper functioning of electrical installations.

In addition to outdoor fires, the department has recorded several incidents of vehicle fires, often linked to short-circuits or fuel line issues. Such incidents, while localised, have strained sources as units are dispatched repeatedly across districts. Firefighters have worked extended shifts to contain flames in both urban and rural locations.

Rescue squads who recently responded to some of the fire accidents in residential areas said many cases stemmed from unattended electrical appliances and improper handling of inflammable materials. In some cases, accumulated waste and dry grass ignited at open sites have caused mass fire.

Sources said fire stations were recently instructed to identify hotspots within their jurisdictions and increase inspections. The firefighters also intensified public awareness campaigns through local bodies and community groups to migrate preventable incidents.

Local administrators were also urged to adopt precautionary measures including the clearing of dry vegetation in unoccupied lands and ensure proper installation of basic fire safety equipment in workplaces. Also, public were asked to report even small fires early, rather than attempting to handle them without professional assistance.