Monsoon won’t ease fire risk, officials stress constant safety checks

Despite monsoon rains, Hyderabad continues to face a high risk of fire accidents due to faulty wiring, poor maintenance, and negligence. Officials warn that moisture increases the chance of electrical short circuits and urge building owners, industries, and citizens to maintain fire safety equipment.

Hyderabad: The onset of the monsoon may have brought relief from the summer heat, but it has not reduced the threat of fire accidents in the city.

Fire safety officials warn that most urban fires are caused by electrical faults, unsafe wiring, overloaded circuits and negligence rather than high temperatures, making the risk equally serious during the rainy season.

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Officials said faulty electrical installations, ageing wiring, illegal power connections, poorly maintained generators and careless handling of flammable materials remain the leading causes of fires.

They added that moisture during the monsoon can increase the chances of electrical short circuits if wiring and equipment are not properly insulated or maintained.

Recent fire incidents in residential apartments, commercial establishments, hospitals, warehouses and industrial units have raised concerns over inadequate fire safety measures.

According to officials, many buildings continue to function without properly maintained firefighting equipment, operational alarm systems or full compliance with mandatory fire safety norms.

“Apartment associations, building owners and commercial establishments should conduct regular electrical inspections, service fire extinguishers and alarm systems, keep emergency exits free from obstruction and organise periodic fire safety drills,” said a senior fire official.

Meanwhile, industries have also been advised to ensure safe storage of combustible materials and strictly follow prescribed fire safety regulations. Officials stressed that fire prevention requires year-round vigilance and cautioned against assuming that seasonal rains reduce the danger. They appealed to citizens to promptly report electrical hazards and follow basic fire safety practices to protect lives and property.

Commuters advised to stay alert during monsoon:

Hyderabad Police have advised commuters to remain cautious while travelling during the monsoon, as rain, poor visibility and waterlogged roads significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Motorists have been asked to reduce speed, maintain safe distances between vehicles and ensure headlights, tail lamps and other lights are in working condition.

Pedestrians have been urged to cross roads carefully and avoid walking near junctions during low visibility, while two-wheeler riders should wear helmets, keep visors clean, avoid sudden braking or lane changes and refrain from overspeeding.