Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services

Introduction

The Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services, initially established in 1977 as a modest fire response unit in Gangtok, has evolved into a vital component of the Sikkim Police. Starting with just 12 personnel and a single fire tender, the unit has grown into the Directorate of Fire and Emergency Services, headquartered along NH-10 near STNM Hospital in Gangtok. This article explores the department’s history, organizational structure, services, infrastructure, public expectations, and emergency protocols.

Historical Background

The Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services began as a small unit in the state capital, Gangtok, in 1977, with a team of 12 personnel and one fire tender. Over the decades, its importance became evident, leading to its transformation into a full-fledged directorate under the Sikkim Police. Today, it is an indispensable entity, serving the state with a robust network of fire stations and advanced equipment.

Organizational Structure

The directorate is led by the Director, Fire & Emergency Services, an IPS officer of the rank of Inspector General or Additional Director General of Police. The Director reports directly to the Director General of Police, the head of the Sikkim Police force. Supporting the Director is the Chief Fire Officer (CFO), a Superintendent of Police-rank officer, who oversees operations with the assistance of four Deputy Chief Fire Officers (Dy. CFOs), each responsible for one of Sikkim’s four districts: East, West, North, and South.

Infrastructure and Expansion

From its humble beginnings, the Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services has expanded significantly. The directorate now operates nine fire stations across the state, located in: Gangtok, Singtam, Rangpo, Pakyong, Jorthang, Ravangla, Namchi, Gyalshing, Mangan.

Two additional fire stations are under construction in Rhenock (East District) and Chungthang (North District), reflecting the department’s commitment to enhancing coverage. The directorate is equipped with 21 fire tenders distributed across the existing fire stations, ensuring prompt response capabilities.

Core Activities

The Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services focuses on the following key activities:

Preventing Loss of Life and Property: Swift action during fire outbreaks and disasters to minimize damage.
Rescue Operations: Conducting rescues during fires, floods, earthquakes, and other emergencies.
Fire Safety Awareness: Educating the public on fire prevention and safety measures.
Standby Services: Providing fire safety arrangements at large public gatherings for a nominal fee.
Training Programs: Offering training in firefighting and rescue operations to individuals and organizations.

Services Provided

The department delivers a wide range of services to the public, including:

Saving lives and property during fire incidents.
Rescue operations during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and cyclones.
Providing expert advice on fire protection and prevention.
Enforcing fire safety regulations in high-risk locations, such as multi-storeyed buildings and hotels.
Issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for fire-hazardous premises like cinema theatres and tall buildings.
Offering basic training in fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue techniques.
Providing standby firefighting arrangements at large events.
Raising public awareness about fire prevention.
Responding promptly to emergencies, including building collapses, train accidents, and air crashes.
Assisting with fire drills and providing guidance on fire safety for multi-storeyed buildings.

Specific points of contact for specialized services include:

Fire Safety for Multi-Storey Buildings: K. Jayaram Naik, Regional Fire Officer, Central Region, Hyderabad.
Fire Drills and Standby Arrangements: Divisional Fire Officer and Assistant Divisional Fire Officer.
Basic Fire Prevention Training: Divisional Fire Officer, Assistant Divisional Fire Officer, and Station Fire Officer.

Public Expectations

The Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services relies on public cooperation to maximize its effectiveness. The department expects the public to:

Dial 101 during emergencies.
Obtain NOCs for buildings taller than 15 meters.
Maintain fire safety systems in high-risk premises.
Conduct fire drills every three months in fire-hazardous locations.
Provide accurate addresses, landmarks, and directions during emergency calls.
Yield the right of way to fire vehicles responding to emergencies.

Emergency Contact Information

The following are the contact numbers for Sikkim’s fire stations:

Fire Control Room, Gangtok: 101
Gangtok Fire Station: 03592-202001
Rangpo Fire Station: 03592-240155
Singtam Fire Station: 03592-233722
Pakyong Fire Station: 03592-257695
Mangan Fire Station: 03592-234266
Ravangla Fire Station: 03595-260782
Namchi Fire Station: 03595-263888
Jorethang Fire Station: 03595-257327
Gyalshing Fire Station: 03595-250810
Chungthang Fire Station: 03592-276840

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher?

Use the P.A.S.S. technique:

Pull the pin.
Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames.
Squeeze the trigger while holding the extinguisher upright.
Sweep the extinguisher side to side to cover the fire area.

If the escape path is threatened, the extinguisher runs out, or it proves ineffective, evacuate immediately and call 101.

How to Use an Emergency Action Plan?

Every workplace should have an up-to-date Emergency Action Plan outlining evacuation procedures, primary and secondary escape routes, and designated meeting points. Stairways, the primary escape route in multi-storey buildings, must remain clear of storage.

What to Do During a Gas Leakage?

Avoid creating sparks or flames (e.g., do not switch on/off lights or use phones).
Turn off the gas supply.
Open windows and doors for ventilation.
Evacuate the area and notify nearby occupants by knocking on doors (avoid ringing bells).
Call 101 for assistance.

What to Do During a Fire Emergency?

Stay calm and alert others by shouting “Fire, Fire” or activating the alarm.
Dial 101 and clearly describe the emergency (e.g., “My neighbor’s home is on fire, with flames coming out of the window”).
Provide the exact address and landmarks.
Follow the operator’s instructions, answering questions calmly to aid the response.

How to Educate Children About Fire Safety?

Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
Familiarize them with the sound of a smoke alarm and how to dial 101.
Practice the “STOP, DROP, AND ROLL” technique for clothing fires.
Show them how to check if a doorknob is hot.
Develop a home fire escape plan with two exit routes per room and a designated meeting point outside.

Conclusion

The Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services has grown from a small unit into a well-equipped, professional directorate dedicated to protecting lives and property. With a robust network of fire stations, modern equipment, and a commitment to public safety, the department continues to serve Sikkim with distinction. By fostering public cooperation and awareness, the Sikkim Fire & Emergency Services ensures a safer future for all residents of the state.