Bhubaneswar, Oct 15: The Odisha Fire Services Department has intensified its efforts to strengthen fire safety measures across the state through its ‘Safe Odisha, Developed Odisha’ campaign. As part of a special fire safety audit drive launched on September 15, a total of 4,580 establishments have been inspected so far.

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Of the establishments inspected, 197 were found to have fire safety deficiencies and were issued notices directing them to rectify the shortcomings and ensure that all mandatory fire safety systems are fully operational. The Fire Services Department has warned of strict action against establishments that fail to address the deficiencies within the stipulated timeframe.

As part of the campaign, Form-8 notices were served on 3,403 establishments three days before the scheduled inspections. The audits focused on the validity of fire safety certificates, the operational condition of essential fire safety equipment, the accessibility of emergency exits and the proper functioning of fire suppression systems.

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During the inspections, fire service officials also trained establishment personnel in the proper use of fire extinguishers to improve their preparedness for emergencies.

Over the past month, the Northern Range recorded the highest number of inspections at 1,681 establishments, followed by 1,543 in the Southern Range and 1,350 in the Central Range.

A special team led by Chief Fire Officer Devendra Kumar Swain has also completed audits of three establishments.

The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Department has announced that the special fire safety inspection drive will be further intensified across the state to ensure compliance with fire safety standards and enhance public safety.