Chennai Police Issues Guidelines for Safe Deepavali Celebrations
With the festival of Deepavali just around the corner, the Chennai Police have issued guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone. The Commissioner of Police, Sandeep Rai Rathore, has urged residents of Chennai to be cautious while bursting firecrackers and during their shopping activities. The police have also taken measures to enhance security during the festivities, with policemen and women being deployed in crowded areas to monitor and prevent criminal activities.
To ensure that Deepavali celebrations comply with the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and the guidance of the Tamil Nadu Government, the Chennai Police Commissioner has issued advisories to the public. Here are the key guidelines to celebrate a safe Deepavali:
1. Burst only green crackers: Only green crackers made of environmentally friendly chemicals are permitted to be sold and burst during the festival.
2. Time restrictions: Cracker-bursting activities should take place only between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM, as well as between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
3. Noise pollution control: No firecrackers that produce more than 125 decibels of sound should be manufactured, used, or sold. Chinese-made crackers are strictly prohibited.
4. Avoid inflammable materials: It is crucial to avoid bursting crackers near easily inflammable articles, motorcycles, scooters, or areas where petrol products are stored to prevent accidents.
5. Exercise caution: Negligently throwing lighted firecrackers can lead to fire accidents and cause harm to others nearby. Carelessly bursting crackers in public areas should also be avoided.
6. Beware of explosives: Do not cover the crackers with tin-boxes or any other objects, as this can lead to serious explosions.
7. Respect safety regulations: Rocket crackers should not be fired near huts or multi-storeyed flats, and crackers should not be kept near candles or oil lamps.
8. Kitchen safety: Dry wet crackers should never be placed near stoves or ovens in the kitchen to prevent accidents.
9. Supervise children: Children should only burst crackers under the direct supervision of adults and should not be allowed to handle them on their own.
10. Mind residential areas: Bursting crackers near thatched huts or houses is strongly discouraged to avoid potential damage.
11. No smoking: Smoking near firecracker shops is strictly prohibited to prevent any accidents caused by ignition.
12. Advertisement restrictions: Bursting or lighting crackers near cracker shops for the purpose of advertisement or competition should be avoided.
13. Shop safety measures: Firecracker shops should refrain from using chimneys, candles, or petromax lights in the shop or in close proximity.
14. Incense stick precautions: Lighting incense sticks near firecracker stalls or at home where crackers are stored should be avoided.
15. Use alternative sources: Instead of matchboxes or fire, people are encouraged to use long incense sticks to burst crackers.
16. Animal safety: Bursting crackers near cattle should be avoided to prevent accidents involving pedestrians or motorists.
17. Spreading awareness: Parents and teachers are requested to educate children about the dangers of fire accidents and cracker injuries, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety measures while bursting crackers.
18. Emergency helpline numbers: In case of any fire accidents, the public is advised to immediately contact the respective emergency helplines: 100 for the Police Department, 101 for the Fire & Rescue Department, 108 for medical emergencies, and 112 for national assistance.
The public is urged to follow these guidelines, take necessary precautions, and cooperate with law enforcement authorities to celebrate Deepavali in an environmentally friendly and safe manner. By adhering to these safety measures, residents can enjoy a joyful festival while ensuring the well-being of themselves and others.
