Fire Department Prepares for Holi, Deploys Teams Across five water bodies

Bhubaneswar: With the Holi festival approaching, the fire department in Bhubaneswar has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents by deploying firemen at five vulnerable locations along with essential rescue equipment.

In anticipation of potential hazards during the festive celebrations, the Odisha Fire and Emergency Services rescue team will be stationed near several water bodies, including the Kuakhai river, Daya river near Dhauli square, Puri canal, Balipatna area, and river Daya near Bankual Balianta. Equipped with life buoy soaps, life jackets, rubber boats with machinery, rescue lines, and underwater breathing apparatus (BA) sets, the teams are prepared to respond swiftly to any emergencies that may arise during the festivities.

Deputy Fire Officer, Abani Kumar Swain, emphasized the importance of caution during Holi, particularly due to the consumption of intoxicants like ‘thandai’ and ‘bhaang’ and the tendency for revelers to play near water bodies. He highlighted the risk of individuals slipping into water bodies while under the influence of these substances, underscoring the need for preventive measures.