AIIMS Jammu conducted “Fire Safety Awareness Programme” at its Campus in collaboration with JK Fire & Emergency Services

Jammu, June 24, 2024 – The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Fire & Emergency Services (JKF&ES), Command Rajouri Poonch, successfully conducted a comprehensive Fire Safety Awareness Programme today at the AIIMS Jammu Campus. The programme aimed at enhancing the fire safety knowledge and preparedness of the staff and students, ensuring a safer environment within the campus. The program was attended by faculty members, senior nursing officers, nursing officers, all fire and security staff, hospital attendants, and housekeeping staff. Additionally, the senior engineer (Civil and Electrical) and his team, along with officers and staff from ACIL, also participated in the program.

The session was conducted by Er Himanshu Gandotra, Assistant Director, JK Fire & Emergency Services, who played a pivotal role in the organization and execution of the programme. His expertise and dedication to fire safety were instrumental in making the event a success. He provided detailed explanations about various types of fire extinguishers, their anatomy, and working mechanisms. Key points included: The importance of checking the pressure gauge of fire extinguishers, ensuring it is in the middle at the time of use. He also advised and emphasized awareness of the “Emergency Evacuation Plan,” which will be available for every building on campus. Demonstrating the PASS method (Pull the pin, Aim the Nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle slowly, and Sweep from side to side) and highlighting considerations like the direction of the wind.

He also shared tips on protecting oneself if someone catches fire, explaining methods such as “Stop, Drop, and Roll.”

He also explaining the concepts of “starvation and smothering” processes to extinguish fires effectively.

The Fire Safety Equipment Display, the Fire Safety Training, Practical demonstrations of fire extinguishing techniques, Mock evacuation drills will be performed in upcoming days to familiarize participants with the emergency evacuation routes and protocols. This exercise aimed at ensuring a swift and orderly evacuation in case of an actual fire emergency.

An Interactive Sessions conclude the programme where participants asked questions and clarify their doubts regarding fire safety measures.

The Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu, Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, emphasized the importance of such programmes in his address. “Fire safety is of paramount importance in a healthcare setting where the safety of patients, staff, and visitors is a top priority. This awareness programme conducted by JKF&ES is a vital step towards ensuring that our campus is well-prepared to handle any fire emergency. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to Er Himanshu Gandotra and his team for their dedication and expertise in imparting this crucial knowledge.”

The Deputy Director (Administration), Lt. Col. Prabhat Sharma of AIIMS Jammu, extends its sincere thanks to Er Himanshu Gandotra, Assistant Director, JK Fire & Emergency Services, for his invaluable contribution to this initiative. His efforts have significantly enhanced the fire safety awareness and preparedness of the AIIMS Jammu community.