AP Mandates Modern Fire Safety Equipment for all Skyscrapers

Visakhapatnam: As part of an initiative to enhance fire safety protocols, the state disaster response and fire services department would hereafter demand installation of modern fire safety equipment in all new skyscrapers.

New fire safety regulations integrate advanced technological solutions including the utilisation of drones to improve the fire fighting process, stated fire services director general, Madireddy Pratap.

This decision follows a series of fire incidents in high-rise buildings.

The DG has said drones will substantially contribute to monitoring fire conditions, evaluating damage and assisting fire-fighting efforts. He called for the installation of fire exits on multiple sides of newly constructed skyscrapers and the provision of advanced fire-fighting tools, such as drones and sky saviour bags, to fire prevention teams.

The DG said fire safety drones, capable of transporting and discharging 20kg of DCB powder, present an economical approach to fire extinguishment. Sky saviour bags, designed for emergency evacuations, allow individuals to safely leap from buildings in the event of a fire.

These technologies were recently demonstrated at the Ramakrishna Towers in Vijayawada city, effectively showcasing their capabilities in fire prevention and response, he said.

Pratap told Deccan Chronicle, “The updated fire safety guidelines will require all new and existing skyscrapers to be equipped with contemporary fire safety systems, including smoke management mechanisms, fire-resistant materials, and automated DCB sprinkler systems.”

The integration of drones is anticipated to provide real-time data and enhance coordination during fire emergencies. The authorities would undertake regular inspections and enforce adherence to the new regulations to uphold elevated safety standards, he said.