Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, has seen rapid and often unplanned urbanisation since independence. The city’s average annual urban growth rate was as high as 8% from 1991 to 2019. The rapid unplanned and unregulated urban expansion has continued to date. As Dhaka is expanding in terms of physical dimension, population, and structural density, the city suffers from diverse problems like water crises, drainage problems after heavy rains, poor solid waste disposal, inadequate infrastructure, fire accidents, etc. In recent years recurrent fire hazards have claimed many lives and destroyed valuable properties in Dhaka metropolitan areas. Let’s look at the existing fire safety regulations, and necessary recommendations to prevent fire hazards and mitigate losses in Dhaka city.   Rules and Regulations Regarding Fire Safety in Dhaka City  The Government of Bangladesh (GoB) have enacted several laws regarding fire safety such as Building Construction Rules 1996, Bangladesh National Building Code 2006, The Fire Prevention and Extinction Act, 2003, and The Fire Prevention and Extinction Rules, 2014.  According to section 4 of the Fire Prevention and Extinction Act 2003, it is mandatory to obtain a licence from the Directorate General of Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defense Authority (BFSCDA) to use any building as a warehouse or workshop. Section 7 of the Act necessitates the permission of the BFSCDA DG during the approval process of the structural design or layout of a multi-storied commercial building.  The Fire Protection Act 2003 requires all buildings, including high-rises and commercial establishments to take necessary public security measures including storing sufficient fire-fighting equipment, breathing apparatus, etc.  Rule 22 of the Fire Prevention and Extinction Rules 2014 states that an owner has to apply for an occupancy certificate of the building at the end of the construction.  Rule 17(1) of the Building Construction Rules 1996 requires public safety measures, such as fire alarms, emergency exits, installation of fire extinguishers, etc.  The building code prohibits the construction of any building over six stories without an elevator with a standby generator. Moreover, any high-rise structure with 10 stories or higher should have elevators spacious enough to carry patients on stretchers.  Read more: Organizational strategies to minimize earthquake damages in Dhaka City Why is Dhaka Prone to Fire Disasters?    Dhaka experienced several disastrous fire hazards, such as Nimtoli, Churihatta, FR Tower, Armanitola, New Market, Moghbazar, Bangabazar Market, Bailey Road, etc. Besides these major fire accidents, many small to medium-scale fire hazards have occurred in the residential and commercial buildings of the city in recent years. Now the question arises as to why Dhaka is prone to fire disasters.  Limitations in Legal Framework and Limited Institutional Capacity Bangladesh’s existing legal provisions regarding fire safety are limited and need to be modified. The fire prevention acts, rules, and regulations are not properly implemented in Dhaka city.  Currently, BFSCDA is working as an emergency service-providing organisation with limited involvement in the planning decision.  The number of fire stations and fire service providers in Dhaka city is still inadequate. Furthermore, long-distance travelling by firefighters hamper the timely provision of support to fire-affected areas in many cases.   The city authorities such as Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK), City Corporations, etc. are also characterised by weak institutional capacity.  In the process of getting approval for the building plan, the building owners collect the licence. However, there is a lack of proper monitoring from the authorities over the implementation of the fire prevention arrangements and public safety conditions. At present, many buildings are being constructed in Dhaka without fire licences or even planning permissions from RAJUK.  The city authorities need adequate numbers of town planners and fire safety professionals to serve the Dhaka Metropolitan Area inhabited by about 23.9 million people.  Read more: What Can Dhaka Learn from the Smart City Singapore Unplanned Development Dhaka city is growing in an unplanned manner. In different areas of the city high rise structures are being built within the old building blocks. Most of these buildings lack essential arrangements for safeguarding people from fire hazards initiated by electric short circuits, gas cylinder explosions, etc.  The narrow road systems obstruct the entrance, movement and manoeuvre of fire service vehicles at the time of emergency. The low vehicle mobility on the road system due to traffic gridlock increases the response time of the fire service leading to serious destruction from minor fire incidents.  The existence of water retention ponds, lakes, and natural reservoirs is gradually decreasing in different areas of Dhaka city due to excessive population pressure, and unplanned urbanisation. Many water bodies and open spaces are being encroached upon by unauthorised uses and getting filled up for the construction of buildings. During fire hazards, the fire service providers often face scarcity of water due to lack of street fire hydrant arrangement and unavailability of natural water sources at nearby locations.  Besides these, proper land use zoning is yet to be implemented in Dhaka City. The intermixing of residential, commercial, and industrial uses in the same location increases the risk of fire occurrences.  Furthermore, in many areas of Dhaka, FAR rules are not maintained properly which makes the city more disaster-prone.  Read more: A city of fire traps: Decades of tragedies in Dhaka expose systemic failures Some Recommendations to Mitigate Fire Hazards in Dhaka City Fire hazard prevention measures are multi-dimensional. It requires a proper combination of the strong legal and administrative framework, adequate funding, organised institutional capacities, advanced technologies, trained manpower, information dissemination, etc. Let’s look at how to enhance the resilience of Dhaka city from some key perspectives. Raising Public Awareness  Public awareness can minimise the risk of fire incidences and the associated destruction of lives and properties.  During a fire hazard, people usually become very worried and confused. As a result, many people fail to make appropriate decisions to escape from fire. This causes the loss of lives.  Electric short circuits, burners, gas cylinder explosions, etc are the major causes of fire hazards in Dhaka City. Information sharing regarding the causes and preventive measures of fire hazards can raise awareness among city dwellers.  Though some individual buildings have fire fighting equipment, they are inadequate in number. In many cases, the fire safety equipment is located in isolated places and people hardly know how to use it. As a result, the safety equipment can’t provide any benefit at the time of a fire emergency.  In many cases, during fire hazards, curious crowds block the roads, as a result, the firefighting vehicles take longer times to reach the target locations during the time of response. 

Efficient electric appliances can minimize the risk of electric shocks and fire accidents. That’s where smart plugs come in. This handy little device opened a whole new window in terms of ensuring electrical safety and convenience. With that said, we have compiled a list of some popular smart plugs available in the Bangladeshi market and what you need to consider before getting one.  Things to Consider Before Buying a Smart Plug  Compatibility  The first thing to consider before getting a smart plug is compatibility. Typically, Bangladeshi appliances come in both UK and EU port types. More specifically, the C, D, G, and K types of sockets are commonly used in all appliances. Consider checking the smart plug socket to make sure they are compatible with the above variants.  Smart Home Integration  One of the key features of most smart plugs these days is smart home integration. Some basic smart plugs may only offer remote control features through the Wi-Fi. But a proper smart plug comes with remote voice control through smart home integration using Alexa or Google Home. Features  Another thing to consider is the functions of the smart plugs. For example, a typical smart plug should automate the on/off system of your appliances as well as enable timer settings if necessary. Some advanced smart plugs may provide energy consumption data through the app. Other innate features like fire retardancy, anti-shock, and ergonomics can also be considered. Read more: Why fire safety audit essential for commercial buildings Connectivity  Most smart plugs connect using the Wi-Fi on the 2.4 GHz band. Some smart plugs may connect to a 5 GHz band so consider checking the compatibility first hand. There’s also the aspect of LAN control where a user can control the plug even if there is no internet on the line.  Certifications  Check for certifications like UL and CE. These ensure compliance with the global safety standards and ensure better safety overall while using the plug.  App Interface  The app interface is also another aspect to consider while buying a smart plug. Most apps are fairly simple with intuitive guidelines to get the hang of things. However, in our test, we found that the Xiaomi Home app had the overall best interface in terms of usability and navigation.  Price and Warranty And lastly, consider the price and warranty of the smart plug. Depending on brand and features, the price and the warranty period may significantly differ.  Read more: How to Protect Children from Electric Shocks Smart Plug Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024: Our Top Picks TP Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS103P4) TP Link being one of the global leaders for routers also has a range of home appliances. Their Kasa line of smart plugs is one of the best Wi-Fi smart plugs currently on the market. The Kasa line has both standalone sockets as well as strip plugs for all sorts of electrical needs.  The HS103P4 is a set of 4 standalone sockets that work independently of each other. It holds UL certification as well as 2021 PCMag Best Smart Plug among other recognitions.  Key Features  - Fire retardant outer shell - Dedicated Kasa App for remote control - Each plug can be customized with a timer and smart functions- Manual On/Off button - Nickel-plated phosphorus, and bronze contacts for stable connections - Double ground pin for increased resistance against shocks - Seamlessly integrates with other Kasa appliances - Works with Alexa and Google Home  The price of the TP-Link Kasa Smart Plug (HS103P4) is 6,699 BDT.  Read more: Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards Baytion 16A WLAN Smart Socket Baytion 16A WLAN smart sockets are designed as a standalone socket that can easily connect to a power outlet or a wired strip. It's especially useful for those looking to use the plug for single appliances in a strip line. The plug comes in a set of two making it a perfect multi-device solution.  Key Features  - Works with any 2.4 GHz network - Energy monitoring feature - Standalone Smart Life App - Fully operable from the app- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home - Adjustable timer setting - High-quality fire-retardant build - Designed for UK wall sockets  The price of Baytion 16A WLAN Smart Socket is 4,029 BDT.  Read more: Common Causes of Fires, Explosions at Homes, Offices, Markets, Industries Innovate 5-pin WIFI smart wall socket  Let’s say you want more than one smart plug but you don’t want the hassle of going for a plug strip. What do you do? Well, Innovate has the perfect solution for you in their 5-pin smart wall socket. There’s one each of a two-pin and three-pin socket. Besides, there are also two additional USB ports for direct charging or power transmission.  Key Features  - 16A capacity with up to 240V discharge - Max load of 18W in each port - Can be controlled by both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth - Dedicated app for remote controlling - A dedicated touch panel for seamless physical control - Voice control via Alexa and Google Home - Shock resist USB port technology  The price of the Innovate 5-pin WIFI smart wall socket is 3,500 BDT.  Read more: Top 10 Smartphones Coming in July 2024 UanTii 20A Tuya Smart Plug  If you want a smart plug that doubles as a minimal design piece, then the Tuya smart plug from UanTii can be a great choice. It’s a standalone single smart plug with a rounded all-black finish. The design looks sleek and modern, unlike most other smart plugs in the market.  The Tuya smart plug supports up to 20A making it a perfect choice for high-voltage appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and even AC.  Key Features  - Works remotely via the Tuya Smart Life App - Electricity usage data is automatically synced to the app to log the total usage - 20A power output at 220V - Scheduled timer - Built-in On/Off button - Overcharge protection circuit breaker - Works with Alexa, Google Home, and Yandex Alice  The price of the UanTii 20A Tuya Smart Plug is 3,289 BDT.  Read more: Top Home Skincare Devices in Bangladesh: Transform Your Beauty Routine Orvibo B25UK Smart WiFi Socket Orvibo is another reliable brand when it comes to smart plugs in Bangladesh. The standalone socket uses the UK-type ports which might or might not work with your appliances depending on their module.  Key Features  - 13A capacity with a 240V max output - Connects with any 240 Hz Wi-Fi band - Seamless remote control with HomeMate App - Scene control option - Power saving reminder - Real-time power consumption tracking - Voice control via Alexa and Google Home  The price of the Orvibo B25UK Smart WiFi Socket is 1,800 BDT. Read more: CCTV Camera Buying Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024 TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket The TYSH-EEU41 smart plug brings a similar concept to the Innovate 5-pin plug. But with its innovative design element, the TYSH-EEU41 takes usability to the next level. Instead of having two separate sockets, the plug modified the three-pin port to double as another three-pin port using the two-pin socket. This innovative design means you can use both UK and EU ports on the same plug without any hassle.  Key Features  - 13A capacity with 240V output - Can be remotely controlled using Smart Life App - Flame retardant outer shell structure - Scene and manual control - Timer for each port - Two additional USB ports - Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant  The price of the TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket is 1,699 BDT.  Read more: Best TWS Earbuds Under Tk 1500: A Detailed Buyer’s Guide Xiaomi Mi Smart WiFi Plug (ZNCZ05CM) The Chinese tech conglomerate Xiaomi also has an impressive lineup of home appliances, including smart plugs. Xiaomi’s design philosophy of being minimalist while keeping functionality at the forefront is easily reflected on their ZNCZ05CM smart plug.  The mouse-like plug offers three different kinds of port selection, moving away from the traditional UK and EU-style ports. It makes the plug more versatile and best suited for those unconventional power ends.  Key Features  - 16A capacity with a maximum 3680W output - 240V static volt - Real-time power consumption and power savings stats - Abnormality detection (high temperature, low voltage) - The remote control works through the Xiaomi Home App - Voice control works via Alexa and Google Home - Power button for manual control  The price of the Xiaomi Mi Smart WiFi Plug (ZNCZ05CM) is 1,290 BDT.  Read more: Top Smart TV Picks for 2024: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide in Bangladesh Sonoff S26 WiFi Smart Plug  The Sonoff S26 is the perfect option for those looking for a smart plug on a budget. It’s a standalone single socket with a fairly large and elongated design. In a sense, the Sonoff S26 doesn’t look minimal but that might have its appeal to some users. The bottom chin houses the power button which also doubles as the manual control for the smart plug.  Key Features  - Seamlessly integrated with the eWeLink app - Provides LAN control - Multiple access and control points through the app - Gang feature of several sockets for scene control using the appCustom timer - Has a 13A capacity with a max output of 3250 W- Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT - The price of Sonoff S26 is 950 BDT.  Read more: 2024 DSLR Camera Buying Guide: Prices and Top Picks in Bangladesh Final Words  Smart plugs have become an integral part of a modern tech-savvy home. It brings automation to those appliances that are not there yet in terms of absolute smart integration. In our research, we found the TYSH-EEU41 Wi-Fi Universal Power Smart Socket to be the best overall option when it comes to smart plugs available in Bangladesh.  Read more: Top Home Electronics in Bangladesh for 2024: Simplify Your Life with These Smart Devices

In the heart of Dhaka’s upscale neighbourhoods – Dhanmondi, Gulshan, and Banani – a burgeoning restaurant scene thrives within the confines of multi-storey buildings. This rapid expansion, however, brings to light grave concerns over fire safety practices, or the lack thereof. Many of these dining establishments lack comprehensive fire safety measures, relying solely on elevators and a solitary staircase for emergency exits. This inadequate infrastructure places patrons and employees in a precarious position, with their safety hanging in the balance. Conversations with residents of these areas shed light on these alarming realities, further underscored by the recent tragedy on Bailey Road, which has sown seeds of fear and apprehension among diners. The indiscriminate sprouting of restaurants, many of which have been operating without fire safety licenses for years, exacerbates the risk. These establishments, often housed in structures originally intended for residential use, now serve commercial purposes, thereby complicating the fire safety landscape. This issue is not confined to a few isolated cases; nearly every alley in these areas is lined with cafes and restaurants, with some buildings entirely dedicated to these businesses. The architectural design, characterised by an extensive use of glass, restricts the inflow of air, and in the event of a fire, leaves breaking the glass as the only means to combat the flames. The structural layout presents further challenges for emergency evacuation. Narrow staircases, cluttered or locked, significantly hinder the ability of patrons to evacuate safely in case of an emergency, turning what should be a straightforward escape route into a potential trap. Read more: Why Fire Safety Audit is Essential for Commercial Buildings The fear of fire is not an abstract concern for the residents of Gulshan and Banani. Moniruzzaman, a businessman from Gulshan, and Didarul Haq Sunny, another businessman from Banani, voiced their apprehensions about dining out in the post-Bailey Road fire era. “There’s a prevailing fear of taking families to restaurants in the Gulshan-Banani area, as it’s unclear which establishments have fire safety measures,” Moniruzzaman said. Didarul mentioned ceasing restaurant visits after the Bailey Road tragedy, citing fire safety as a major concern. Their concerns highlight a critical demand for Dhaka’s development authority, RAJUK, to enforce and oversee rigorous fire safety standards across all restaurants. Professor Dr. Adil Muhammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP), echoed these sentiments. He pointed to the widespread practice of converting entire buildings into dining spaces, enveloped in glass, which fundamentally compromises fire safety protocols. The aftermath of the Bailey Road tragedy has left a palpable sense of urgency among citizens and experts alike, calling for immediate action from RAJUK and other relevant authorities to mitigate the risk of future incidents. Read more: Petition filed seeking closure of restaurants in residential buildings Dr. Adil advocated for detailed inspections of fire safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and alarms, and insisted on comprehensive safety audits for all multi-storey and specially purposed buildings. Despite existing regulations mandating two staircases in buildings, the reality on the ground reveals a stark misuse of these provisions, with designated fire exits often repurposed as storage areas. This blatant disregard for safety norms necessitates a stringent enforcement of building codes and fire safety regulations. RAJUK’s Chairman, Anisur Rahman Mia, acknowledged the challenges at hand, committing to a series of actions aimed at identifying and rectifying establishments lacking in fire safety measures. He drew attention to the widespread issue of illegal commercial activities within residential buildings, underscoring RAJUK’s dedication to enforcing legal and safety standards. With over 517,000 buildings under its jurisdiction in Dhaka, of which only 200,000 are approved, RAJUK faces a daunting task. An astonishing 90% of the approved buildings deviated from their original designs, complicating the enforcement of fire safety and building codes, the public agency says. Read more: A city of fire traps: Decades of tragedies in Dhaka expose systemic failures

Bangladesh isn’t new to fire accidents. In the last several years, the country has seen some devastating fire accidents that claimed the lives of hundreds and destroyed millions in property. The recent fire in Dhaka’s busy Bailey Road which claimed the lives of 46 individuals only resonates with the helplessness and despondency left behind by the tragedy. Every fire incident brings forth the question of fire safety audit or lack thereof. Because a tangible and thorough audit could’ve saved the 46 precious human lives and the many more we’ve lost thus far.  What is a Fire Safety Audit?  A fire safety audit is the systematic process of examining the compliance and preparedness of a building in the wake of a fire accident. The primary purpose of such audits is to identify potential hazards, evaluate the effectiveness of existing safety measures, and ensure that the building is equipped to handle emergencies, particularly fires.  These audits are typically conducted by qualified professionals, such as fire safety engineers or specialists, and may involve collaboration with local fire departments or regulatory authorities. In the case of Bangladesh, the primary regulatory body includes RAJUK (for Dhaka city), city corporations, and the Fire Service and Civil Defense department. Read more: Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe A fire safety audit considers the following points of action:  - Existing fire protection system - Construction and design of the building - Emergency evacuation channels - Electrical and mechanical compliance - Documentation - Compliance with building codes - Risk assessment - Overall security measures  Why Fire Safety Audit is Essential for Commercial Buildings Safety of the Occupants  The first and foremost reason for a fire and life safety audit is the safety of the occupants. A comprehensive audit helps to understand whether there is any structural flaw that might potentially be life-threatening for the occupants. It also helps to assess the preparedness of the occupants in case of an emergency and even educate them about the same.  Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention Compliance with the Building Code  Fire safety audits can help to assess whether the building has been constructed in line with the proper building code. Compliance with the building code goes beyond the scope of just a legal requirement. It ensures that the building and its occupants have safety measures in place should there be any hazardous accidents.  One of the common building codes concerning fire safety is the construction of a fire exit and a second staircase. According to the city corporation, any building over five stories should have a second staircase. RAJUK puts the limit up to the tenth floor. The Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Act of Bangladesh regulates that any building over six stories should have an emergency fire exit. 

Fires can be devastating, but with the right knowledge and precaution, parents can significantly reduce the risk to their children. Whether it's in the home, at school, or during family outings, understanding and implementing fire safety measures can make all the difference. In this guide, we will explore essential fire safety tips for parents to keep their children safe. 12 Fire Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe One of the elements that can be both helpful and dangerous is fire. It can happen suddenly and at any time! The first rule to cope with the situation is not to panic. Besides, parents can follow these tips to prevent any harm to their kids. Install Smoke Alarms According to the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homes with working smoke alarms have a significantly lower risk of fire-related deaths. In homes where smoke alarms are working properly, the chance of death in a fire is 55% less compared to homes that either have no smoke alarms or have smoke alarms that don't work. It's essential to install smoke alarms in key areas of the home, including the kitchen, bedrooms, and hallways.  The smoke alarms should be checked regularly, and change the batteries at least once a year. The children should be trained about the sound of the alarm and what to do when they hear it. Read more: Earthquake Safety Tips for Parents to Keep Children Safe Create an Escape Plan Having a well-thought-out escape plan is crucial for ensuring children's safety in the event of a fire. Parents need to discuss and practice the plan with their children regularly. A meeting place can be designated outside the house where everyone can gather.  Parents need to make sure that their children know how to crawl low under smoke to avoid inhaling toxic fumes and how to feel closed doors for heat before opening them. Keep Matches and Lighters Out of Reach One of the leading causes of fire-related deaths among children is playing with fire-starting materials. Children are naturally curious, and their curiosity often leads them to explore their surroundings, including potentially dangerous items like matches and lighters. They might not fully comprehend the dangers associated with fire, making them more likely to experiment with these items.  Parents should keep matches and lighters in a high, locked cabinet or drawer, out of the kids’ reaches. Additionally, children should be educated about the dangers of playing with fire and the severe consequences it can have. Read more: Multi-storey buildings being built ignoring fire safety Install Fire Extinguishers Having a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and other key areas can make a significant difference in containing a small fire before it spreads. Parents need to ensure that their children know where the fire extinguishers are located and how to use them, following the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. Practice Kitchen Safety The kitchen is one of the most common places for household fires to start. Children should be kept away from the kitchen when the stove and oven are on.  Parents can use back burners when possible and turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills. Flammable objects, such as dish towels and curtains, should be away from the stove. Older children should be taught how to use kitchen appliances in a safe way. Read more: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention

The risk of fire hazard is increasing by the day as buildings as tall as 10-12 storeys are being built without adhering to the Building Code while ignoring fire safety plans in all the urban centres across the country, including Dhaka. The construction of high-rise buildings right next to narrower roads increases the risks resulting from a fire, since it restricts the access of fire service vehicles with heavy equipment in the event of an emergency, leading to more casualties and destruction. Professor Dr. Adil Muhammad Khan, the executive director of the Institute for Planning and Development (IPD) said, “The construction and use of multi-storied buildings are  going on in defiance of building regulations and fire safety rules across the country including Dhaka. And these infrastructures are failing to guarantee security for human lives in the event of various disasters, including fire.” The high-rise structures around the country lack proper arrangement of extinguishing systems such as stairs and exit paths, fire elevators, fire doors, fire detectors, fire sprinklers, fire suppression systems etc. Those buildings without basic fire safety plans are being used for commercial and other purposes without any type of occupancy certificate, Adil said. Bangladesh needs to establish a building regulatory authority immediately to effectively enforce the national Building Code, adding that this is the only way to ensure proper standards and fire safety in the construction of high-rise buildings across the country, he said. Concern is growing among people after a fire at a high-rise building in Gulshan that killed at least two people and injured many others, very close to the fourth anniversary of the Churihatta fire tragedy in Old Dhaka that claimed the lives of 71 people in 2019. Also Read: Gas explosions took 82 lives in 3 years in Narayanganj, threats remain: Police, fire service The horrific fire incident in the multi-storey residential building in Gulshan again brought to the fore the issue of the weaknesses of the internal fire safety system of buildings and the weakness of overall planning, preparation, surveillance and enforcement of laws in urban areas against the fear of loss of life and extensive damage due to fire in urban areas, said Adil. “To ensure fire and disaster safety in cities, it is necessary to hold developers and building owners accountable as well as all city agencies including development authorities accountable,” he added. Currently, seven-storey buildings are considered as multi-storey buildings as per the existing fire safety laws in Bangladesh. However, in the Building Construction Rules, 2008, and the Bangladesh National Building Code, 2020, 10-storey buildings are considered as multi-storey buildings. So, the fire risk is very high in many buildings above seven floors. Citing the necessity of a proper investigation into why the authorities have failed to implement the recommendations of inquiry committees formed into past urban disasters including fire incidents, the IPD official said, “We believe that although there are policies to give priority to the safety of people’s lives in the city, recommendations are not being fully implemented due to invisible reasons.” Also Read: Fire Safety in Apartments: Causes and Prevention Due to the massive loss of life in the recent terrible earthquake in Turkey-Syria, the issues of our lack of preparedness to deal with disasters, including earthquakes, have been strongly discussed. Analysis of why we have not been able to implement the recommendations of inquiry committees formed into past urban disasters including fires is very important. Brigadier General Md. Main Uddin, Director General of Fire Service Directorate, told UNB that everyone wants to build a building, but no one wants to spend money on security. “Invest in security. We need to increase our capacity. Fire safety plan will be implemented. Investment should be made in creating awareness about fire safety from childhood. This should be taught in the curriculum. Training centers should be developed on fire safety.” He also said to implement the fire safety plan conditions adopted at the time of construction of each building. Before issuing the occupancy certificate of the building, the opinion of the Fire Service should be taken on whether the fire safety conditions are complied with and a hydrant system should be installed across the city, he said, adding that if the building is constructed with fire safety, the risk will be less. According to preliminary findings after the Gulshan fire incident on Sunday, the owners of the 13-storey residential building had received a no-objection certificate from the Fire Service during construction. Also Read: Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards However, they had not received an approved fire safety plan that is required under the Fire Prevention Act. Rajuk Chairman Anishur Rahman Mia told UNB that no building is allowed to be constructed without fire safety. Even with the permission to construct a building from Rajuk, many people do not follow the building rules, as a result of which the damage is more in case of fire accident. He also said, “We have continued operations from Rajuk in this regard. Our monitoring system will be strengthened. Fire safety must be ensured in the buildings that will be constructed from now on after approval from Rajuk.”      

To cut the risk of fire hazards there are sets of preventive measures. Still, fire accidents can take place for diverse reasons. The method of practicing how a school building would be evacuated in the event of a fire or other emergencies is called a school fire drill. Fire drills in a school can teach the school officials as well as students about what to do and how to handle situations if a fire hazard occurs in the school. Let’s find out the importance of fire drills in school and how to carry school fire drills safely.  Why is it essential to carry out fire drills in Schools  A fire drill is very significant in a school because everyone in a school needs to take part in regular fire drills if they want to fully grasp the building’s escape routes and the instructions. Besides, fire drills help young students and others to become accustomed to the process and recognise that they need to take fire safety seriously.   Most importantly, this can help to reduce confusion, panic, and any disorderly behavior and it helps teachers and other responsible people to understand their role during an emergency. All school staff have a duty to help students move out of the school during a fire. The practice of remaining calm and organized during a fire can ensure everyone’s safety.  Read Apartment Fire Safety: Causes, Prevention, Ways to Stop Fire in Residential Buildings The specific advantages of a fire safety drill at school are as follows:  -Remind staff and students of the location of emergency routes, the assembly point, and any specific fire safety procedures. -Test that fire safety measures properly. -Estimate how quickly people can shift from the school. -Let fire wardens have a chance to practice their duties. -Test personal emergency evacuation plans. -Ensure that emergency routes and exits are free from obstructions. -Test your school’s roll calling procedure. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999 must provide everyone with information, instruction, and training relating to fire safety. Fire drills are an important part of fulfilling this requirement. How to carry out fire drills in school safely Ensure everyone’s presence Make sure everyone is on board when you conduct a fire drill at work. First, ensure you train the entire fire team on the evacuation procedures and are ready to make the drill a success. Then, execute the drill to take people away from the factory line, their desks, and the warehouse. Communicate  Your good communication can make the fire drill successful.  Make sure that you announce the drill in every place employees will see it like the employee portal, intranet, website, Slack channel, newsletter, and text message.  Ensuring employee communication software covers the most common communication channels will make this a lot easier. Schedule the drill on Google calendar including the information about the fire team and their roles, orderly evacuation routes, and expectations for procedure and behavior. Set goals You need to set goals for the drill. Setting goals helps you to improve them in subsequent drills. For example, if your first drill takes 15 minutes to get everyone safely outside, trying the next one needs just 5 to 10 minutes.   You can follow:  -Time from drill activation to evacuation -Time to report completion of the drill -A successful shutdown of equipment Practice the procedure First, let your fire safety leaders practice “on paper” with an exercise where they describe the evacuation plan to the fire warden. The team must describe their actions during a fire drill and analyze any perceived weaknesses or confusion. As soon as the fire safety leaders understand their roles, they must walk physically through the fire drill. Then conduct a full rehearsal with other staff. When the staff masters a basic fire drill, the fire safety leaders design more complex scenarios.  Observe and reflect Conduct a fire drill with a few people who are not on the fire evacuation team. Task them with looking for the following: -Large groups who are moving slowly or talking with each other -People who use cell phones or other devices -Unhelpful behavior like grabbing coats, purses, and bags Disciplinary Requirements for safe fire drills in schools  It is not complicated to carry out fire drills in your school. Just you need to be regular and consistent. Check out here all the requirements and ways to carry out fire drills in school safely. -Carry out a fire drill at least once a term. -Run each drill at different times. -Ask specific members of staff to observe and make notes. -Test people’s knowledge of alarm locations to alternate fire escape routes. -Ensure staff knows how to help students evacuate. -Ensure you check the effectiveness of PEEPs. -Make sure fire wardens practice their duties. -Teach people how to report blocked routes or unclear alarms -Test your roll calling procedure. -Correct any issues you identified during the drill. When to carry out school fire drills safely  Any time during school hours can be perfect to carry out a fire drill. However,  it would be better to run each drill at a different time of day so that you can cover unexpected and difficult situations. Picking an assembly or lunchtime may be good rather than during class.  Some Important things to consider  If you want to get the most out of a fire drill, it is important for your school to assess the evacuation process from start to end. The following are important things during a fire drill in your school. -Let certain members of staff not take part in the drill but observe. -Ask a member of staff to set off the nearest alarm to test their knowledge of alarm locations and how to activate them. -Make sure to carry out specific drills under the assumption that one of the escape routes is blocked.  Bottom Line Fire drill procedures generally depend on the building type like hospitals, school buildings, or high-rise buildings. However,  the motto of a fire drill in school is to assure efficient evacuation process, and to identify the problems with the emergency system or evacuation procedures. Besides, fire alarm systems of the buildings need to be checked on a regular basis to ensure that the system is working. Generally, all staff in schools have specific fire safety responsibilities so that they can help students and others in an emergency. Safe conductions of School fire drills can save lives and minimise destructions.

People who live in apartments or residential buildings need to be aware about the causes behind fires and preventive measures. The residents of condominiums, or apartment buildings should be familiar with the fire safety elements and collaborate with their neighbours to evacuate the buildings in the event of fire. Here’s how to minimise the risk of fire in apartments and what to do if any fire hazard occurs. Common Causes of Fires in Apartment and Residential Buildings The most frequent causes of home fires, the damages they inflict, and how to avoid them are listed below. Cooking Cooking or kitchen fires are by far the most common cause of house fires. Among different types of kitchen fires, grease fires are generally the most dangerous. When the temperature of your frying oil rises over 375 degrees Fahrenheit, it will begin to smoke and ultimately cause flames. Read Workplace Fire Safety: 12 Effective Ways to Prevent Fire Hazards Heating House fires and injuries are often caused by portable heaters. They are responsible for a large number of fires since many homes do not have adequate space. Heaters come with detailed guidelines on how near they may be to other items, furniture, or walls. Electrical Fires A substantial percentage of home fires are caused by defective wiring or malfunctioning electrical outlets. Smoking Smoking materials such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes are often causes of house fires. Smoking materials that have been lit inside are tiny and easy to overlook. Read School Fire Hazard Safety: Essential preventive measures to minimise risk Ways to Prevent Fires in Apartment and Residential Buildings You may be familiar with fire safety advice for houses, but living in an apartment building poses a unique set of problems that you should be aware of – particularly if you live on the higher floors. Follow the procedures below to help safeguard and prepare yourself in the case of an emergency in your apartment building: -        To keep appliances safe, use surge protectors. -        Circuits should not be overloaded. -        Frayed or fractured cables should not be used. -        Cords should not be routed beneath carpets or between rooms. -        A portable heater should never be left on if there’s no one in the room. -        Make sure youngsters can't get their hands on matches or lighters. -        Keep combustible materials out of your residence. -        Candles should never be left unattended. -        If you're cooking, don't leave it on the burner unattended. Read Car on Fire: Common Causes and Immediate Things to Do

Fire is a huge problem for businesses. In fact, it is one of the leading causes of injury to workers, accounting for 3% of work-related injuries. But it's not just an occupational hazard—it's a very real risk that every business owner should be aware of. What can you do to protect your business from the fire? How do you prepare for a fire emergency? Here are some tips to help you prevent fires in your workplace. How to Prevent Common Fires in Workplaces Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible to All Fire extinguishers can be a life-saving devices in the event of a fire. However, many people do not have them readily accessible in their workplaces. This can put employees at risk if a fire occurs. In fact, every room in a workplace should have a fire extinguisher. By having fire extinguishers readily accessible in workplaces, employees can be confident that they will have the ability to put out a fire should it occur.

Entrepreneurs on Sunday demanded  an end to the existing discrimination in tariff rates on the import of fire safety equipment. They made the demand at the first meeting of the FBCCI Standing Committee on Fire Safety, Disaster and Explosion held at FBCCI. They were referring to the fact that the government has only allowed tax benefits for the import of fire safety equipment to the garment sector .  But the image of Bangladesh abroad is tarnished when fires break out in other industries as well.  Moreover, they said, workers in all sectors have equal rights to safety and security.  Therefore, there should be no such discrimination in the tariff rate on the import of fire safety equipment, they demanded. Also read: FBCCI to work for restoring confidence in e-commerce sector The committee chairman Md. Niaz Ali Chisty said it is important for factories in all sectors to have fire protection systems to ensure safe industrialization in the country.  But other than the garment industry, other industrialists have to bear the heavy tax burden of importing these much-needed equipment, he said. The total tax incidence is 58.6 percent in fire door, fire alarm cable and hose reel imports, 37 percent in gate valve, 26.2 percent in fire pump and fire alarm system (detector), 11.05 percent in fire extinguisher and 31 percent in ABC dry powder, he informed. Due to high tax incidence, he said, it is often not possible for small and medium entrepreneurs to take adequate fire protection measures. Hence, he demanded equal benefits for all sectors like the readymade garment industry. Separate permits, required for the import of carbon dioxide, foam, dry powder and other fire-resistant gases and chemicals result in harassment and time delay for the importers. As there is no BSTI laboratory in Chattogram, chemicals have to be sent to Dhaka for testing, which takes an additional 8 to 10 days. Prices have risen due to fares at ports and containers for those days. Speaking as the chief guest at the meeting, FBCCI Vice President Md. Amin Helaly said that the development of Bangladesh has been largely informal. But now it is time to ensure security to the industry.  He urged the standing committee to prepare an action plan to ensure fire safety in the factory.  He also recommended starting sector-based training by preparing a training manual. At the same time, the vice-president urged the importers to take initiative to manufacture fire safety equipment locally. Abu Motaleb, director-in-charge of the committee, said there could be various reasons behind the fire at the factory.  Also read: Automobile industry lacks policy to grow in Bangladesh: FBCCI But first of all, the owner is blamed. He said the standing committee would soon submit a policy to the FBCCI identifying the problems and action plan to ensure fire safety in the factory, he added. A sub-committee is also formed at the meeting to formulate that policy. During the meeting, Brig Gen. (retd) Abu Nayeem Md Shahidullah, advisor of FBCCI's Safety Council, said that FBCCI has already contacted ILO to start safety training in the industry. The government is also considering setting up a national level one-stop service in order to provide all fire safety certificates and permits, he informed. FBCCI Director Harun Or Rashid, Secretary General Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Standing Committee Co-Chairman Md. Wahid Uddin, Mohammed Shahjahan, Abul Hossain, M Mahmudur Rashid, Zakir Uddin Ahmed, Mohammad Shamsul Haque Jamil, Mohammad Awlad Husain Rajib, Mohammad Monzur Alam, Tanjir Ahmmed Tohin and other members of the committee were present in the meeting.