Lahore: Punjab Minister for Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique on Friday visited Rescue Headquarters and reviewed fire safety arrangements in high-rise buildings and government hospitals across the province.
Secretary Emergency Services Department Dr. Rizwan Naseer briefed the minister on existing fire safety measures and emergency preparedness. Khawaja Salman Rafique directed that fire safety arrangements in government hospitals across Punjab be made immediate and effective.
Speaking on the occasion, Khawaja Salman Rafique said that, on the instructions of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, ensuring fire safety in government hospitals was a top priority. He said all necessary measures were being completed on a priority basis to further improve fire safety arrangements and ensure an effective response to emergencies.
He said the suitability and accessibility of emergency exits in hospitals were being reviewed with the assistance of Rescue 1122. Hospital administrations had also been directed to conduct comprehensive safety checks of air conditioners, electrical wiring and electro-medical equipment.
The minister said Deputy Commissioners, Rescue 1122 and relevant departments had made monthly emergency drills a regular practice. He stressed that effective fire safety arrangements in hospitals were essential for protecting citizens, patients and medical staff.
Dr. Rizwan Naseer said Rescue 1122 was coordinating with relevant departments to improve fire safety and emergency response in hospitals. He stressed the need for regular inspection of fire hydrants, emergency exits and firefighting arrangements, along with immediate identification and rectification of shortcomings.
He said regular mock emergency drills in hospitals could ensure an effective response and safe evacuation in the event of a fire.
The meeting was informed that fire safety surveys of 2,449 high-rise buildings and all government hospitals across Punjab had been completed. The briefing also proposed installation of fire hydrants near several important buildings and hospitals across the province.
The meeting also discussed measures relating to fire safety in high-rise buildings and hospitals, emergency evacuation procedures, fire hydrants, fire alarms, smoke detectors, emergency drills and the availability of trained staff.
