Patna District Administration Issues Fire Safety Guidelines for Holi Festivities
The Patna district administration, in collaboration with Bihar fire services, has released a comprehensive fire safety advisory to ensure public safety during the upcoming Holika Dahan and Holi celebrations. Officials have stressed the importance of residents seeking formal guidance from local fire stations before organising ritual bonfires to prevent hazardous incidents.
Key Safety Measures for Holika Dahan
To mitigate risks, the advisory mandates that Holika Dahan must be conducted in open and safe areas, away from congested neighbourhoods, overhead electrical wires, and transformers. It strictly prohibits lighting fires near highly flammable locations such as petrol pumps, gas godowns, and kerosene depots, as well as sensitive areas including slums, wheat fields, and barns.
Specific Protocols and Requirements
Safety protocols specify that the height of the Holika pyre must not exceed 10 feet, and the use of fireworks or highly flammable liquid accelerants is forbidden. Organisers are required to keep at least 2 drums containing 1,000 litres of water at the site. In rural regions, pump sets should remain on standby to handle potential emergencies.
Participants are urged to wear cotton clothing instead of synthetic fabrics and ensure that children maintain a safe distance from the fire. The public has been cautioned against throwing burning embers near vegetation, forest areas, or main roads, and must ensure all ashes are completely extinguished with water before disposal.
Emergency Assistance Available
Emergency assistance is available 24/7 by dialling 101 or 112, or by contacting the Patna district control room. This proactive measure aims to enhance preparedness and response during the festive period, safeguarding communities across the region.
