The Health Ministry stated on Tuesday that it is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of patients (including inpatients and outpatients), their attendants, and others at the healthcare facilities, emphasising the subject of fire prevention and safety.

Punya Salila Srivastava, the health secretary, emphasised the significance of guaranteeing electrical and fire safety in all medical facilities. She also emphasised the necessity of fire safety planning, hospital fire safety capacity building for all healthcare personnel, and the necessity of conducting frequent practice exercises for patient evacuation and fire preparedness.

From April 21 to 25, the ministry has organised Fire Safety Week in cooperation with all states and UTs as well as pertinent government ministries and agencies.

Srivastava also emphasised the need of creating a culture of safety in healthcare institutions at the pledge-taking event.

In order to improve and guarantee fire safety across the nation, she invited all public and private healthcare institutions to fully engage in the events and share best practices with the Ministry.

The participants made the following commitments: prioritise the safety of every patient, coworker, and visitor; embrace innovative solutions to prevent fire hazards; and cultivate a culture of fire safety awareness within their respective institutions by educating all staff and stakeholders on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, and the essential resources needed to maintain a safe environment.

To increase awareness of the significance of preventing and mitigating fire threats in all healthcare institutions nationwide, a number of events have been organised during “Fire Safety Week.”

In addition, the ministry hosted a two-day webinar series on electrical and fire safety in healthcare facilities, which covered important topics like patient evacuation, regulatory compliance, prevention, maintenance and operation of fire detection and suppression systems, and conducting practice drills.

More than 3,000 people from all states and UTs have participated in the webinar series.

The government has also encouraged the Indian Medical Association, Central ministries, and departments to take part in “Fire Safety Week” events, given the importance of the private health sector’s active involvement.