Kerala temple fire: Tips to keep in mind in case of fire explosion

Puttinal temple fire in Kerala -- 86 people dead and more than 250 people injured. Here are tips to follow in case of fire accidents.

According to latest statistics, around 86 people died and more than 250 were injured in a massive fire blast that occurred around 3.30 am at the Puttingal temple in Kerala, which is located around 60 kms from the state capital. The incident took place during the temple festival, when a spark from a lit cracker landed in a building where high potency crackers were stored. And within a span of few minutes, the entire building came crashing down following a massive explosion. Even numerous homes that were located within the half kilometre radius of the incident have been damaged.

According to local legislator P.K. Gurudasan, there was a firework display, which is usually associated with every temple festival and not any firework competition as doing the rounds. He further stated that there is no clear evidence if any permission has been taken to carry out the display. V.S. Sivakumar, State Health Minister said that people who were injured were taken to the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College hospital, where numerous people are undergoing treatment. Ramesh Chennithala, Home Minister of Kerala announced financial assistance to both injured and dead people, informing that strict action will be taken against the concerned officials. The fire is currently under control and with the help of heavy machines, the officials are clearing out the debris. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narenda Modi twitted that he will be visiting the Kollom temple and also sent his condolences saying the disaster was heartrending and shocking beyond words .

As there is a high chance of casualties during firework display, it is important to take necessary precautions beforehand. Here are some tips to keep in the mind --

• Avoid wearing synthetic or or nylon clothing as they are highly inflammable and hence, can easily catch a fire in case of a mishap.
• Wear good shoes as it acts as protective shield to save your feet from burns and also prevents you from any injury caused due to walking on a half-burning cracker.
• If possible, fire crackers should be lit in open ground and not in crowded places to minimise the risk of injury and casualty in residents.

If skin injuries and burns are reported, follow these simple tips to protect yourself and your friends and family, in the case of fire outbreak. Read more about first aid for burn injuries.

• If your skin has turned pink in colour and is painful, then soak in water for 15 minutes, pat dry and apply ointment over it to prevent spread of an infection.
• Burns that develop blisters should be covered with a thin film bandage and if broken than a simple dressing might help.
• Avoid applying creams, gels or ointments over the burnt area unless it is cooled down. Also read about 5 things you should NEVER apply on a burn.
• And in the case of severe burns, immediately consult a doctor or rush the individual to a nearby hospital.

Image Source: Shutterstock (Image for representational image only)

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