Photos: What makes Delhi hospitals fire prone

Delhi has experienced 66 hospital fire incidents in the last two years, with 30 cases reported in 2022 and 36 in the previous year, Over 8K fire calls in 1st 5 months of 2024.

In the past year, there were similar incidents, such as the rescue of 20 infants from a hospital in Dwarka and the evacuation of more than 100 patients due to a fire in the endoscopy unit at AIIMS.

Atul Garg, director of Delhi Fire Service, stressed that responding to hospital fires was one of the most challenging tasks faced by their department. Fire officials explained the need for more personnel and time to evacuate patients while simultaneously battling the flames.

When a hospital reports a fire, the fire services send the maximum number of rescue vehicles to the location, acknowledging the potential for a large number of people to be affected. The presence of patients with different levels of mobility complicates the evacuation process, requiring customized emergency plans.

On February 26, a fire broke out at Nayak Hospital in central Delhi, requiring the evacuation of over 50 people, including patients and staff, from the seven-story emergency block building.

"Unlike typical fire rescues, firefighters cannot use ladders or physically lift people. This necessitates careful planning between staff and responders to ensure patient safety throughout the evacuation, prioritising well-being and minimising harm," said Atul Garg,director of Delhi Fire Service.

Fire officials noted that most hospitals have inadequate arrangements, including the need for wider staircases. When hospitals apply for a non-objection certificate from the fire department, they are instructed to construct staircases with a larger width to facilitate the easy evacuation of patients on stretchers during a rescue.

Another fire official emphasized the importance of compartmentation on every hospital floor, allowing for the quick relocation of patients in an emergency. "During a fire, they have five to six minutes to rescue the trapped people. So, there is a need for compartmentation," the official said.

In an emergency, evacuate immediately using the stairs, refrain from jumping in panic. If exits are blocked, stand near windows and break the glass for safe evacuation. Stay calm and prioritize safety for a swift escape from the building.

Prioritise building safety with advanced detectors, fire alarms, and sprinklers. Maintain accessible extinguishers, clear evacuation routes, and secure storage for flammable materials. Avoid blocking staircases and terraces for swift emergency response.