The Mumbai Fire Brigade’s volunteer training programme, which was held at multiple centres is now being conducted only at the Byculla centre, following the closure of training centres in Borivali, Marol, Kandivali and Andheri due to insufficient participation. According to Chief Fire Officer Ravindra Ambulgekar, in four years, the programme has trained over 6,000 individuals. It consists of a six-hour session providing participants with knowledge on utilising fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, along with guidelines for rescue operations during emergencies such as fire incidents. Given the increasing number of high-rise buildings in Mumbai and fire incidents in the recent past, the programme aims to engage civilians as first responders during emergencies, the CFO said. Ashwini Bhide, Additional Municipal Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, overseeing the Mumbai Fire Brigade wing, emphasised that the initiative primarily focuses on raising awareness among citizens. The training sensitises individuals on handling emergency situations such as fire incidents, by educating them on crucial elements, such as locating fire hydrants, emergency contacts, and necessary arrangements to facilitate firefighting operations. Simultaneously, the BMC is in discussions with the state government regarding the inclusion of certified electrical agencies for thorough checks akin to fire audits. Approximately 80% of fires, according to the BMC, stem from short circuit issues, highlighting the necessity of routine electrical system inspections to avert significant mishaps.
