New Delhi: Delhi Fire Service has restricted casual leave, earned leave and day-offs of senior officials and staff members from Nov 6 to 8 to ensure prompt emergency response in the city as fire-related incidents during Diwali celebrations can be expected.The local fire officials have carried out inspections of fire stations and quick response vehicles under their respective jurisdictions to ensure the availability and operational readiness of the maximum possible number of fire units and equipment, including sets of breathing apparatus for firefighters; foam and foam branches to douse fires involving petrol, diesel and other flammable liquids; delivery hoses that carry water or foam under pressure to the fire site; suction hoses to draw water from tanks, reservoirs and other sources; and branches or nozzles that direct and control the flow of water onto flames.The officials have also been directed to ensure necessary arrangements for the batteries, repair and upkeep of fire units, including sirens, warning lights, etc, and ensure that the maximum possible number of fire units are made roadworthy. For effective communication, they are told to ensure the provision or repair of existing wireless sets and the availability of walkie-talkie sets in fire units, including standby fire units.“We have made extra deployments at different locations to reduce response time and losses. The fire stations and appliances are also kept in readiness to meet any eventuality,” said an official.
