Siliguri, Sept. 11 -- Following a series of fire incidents in Kolkata and other parts of the state, the fire department has intensified surprise inspections at various establishments across Siliguri to assess their fire safety arrangements.
On Friday, fire department officials conducted an inspection at a shopping mall in Matigara, Siliguri and reviewed its fire-fighting systems and preparedness for emergencies. The officials checked whether the fire extinguishers installed at the mall were functioning properly and also assessed the ability of the mall staff to operate the equipment during a fire emergency.
The officials further inspected the emergency preparedness of the mall to ensure that people inside could evacuate quickly and safely in the event of a fire. Emergency exits, staircases and designated evacuation routes were also examined.
In addition, the fire department checked the necessary fire safety approvals and various building-related documents of the mall. The mall authorities informed the officials that fire safety drills are conducted every three months. They also welcomed the fire department's surprise inspection.
A similar inspection was carried out at a shopping mall on Sevoke Road on Thursday.
Ambar Deb, Siliguri Fire Station officer, said: "Such inspections will continue at various establishments. If any irregularities are found, appropriate action will be taken."
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.