Fire Service itself may be affected if 7-magnitude quake hits Dhaka: DG

Fire Service and Civil Defence may itself suffer damage if a major earthquake measuring 7 or above hits Dhaka, making simultaneous rescue operations at multiple locations difficult, its Director General Brigadier General Muhammad Zahed Kamal said on Sunday.

Emphasising the role of the media in raising public awareness about earthquakes, the DG said regular campaigns are needed to inform people about safety measures during earthquakes, including where to take shelter, avoiding elevators, and keeping emergency kits containing essential medicines, flashlights and whistles.

He made the remarks while addressing a training programme on fire safety as the chief guest at the Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarters at Bangabazar in the capital.

He also stressed the importance of ensuring safety before entering earthquake-damaged buildings, saying rescue operations vary depending on the structure and condition of collapsed buildings.

"While reporting on such incidents, journalists must also give the highest priority to their own safety," he said.

The Fire Service chief said around 100 stations across the country have been brought under a specific plan to deal with possible disasters like major earthquakes.

"If a devastating earthquake occurs, manpower and equipment will be sent quickly to affected areas from these stations," he said.

As part of the preparedness plan, a dry exercise has already been conducted, he added, saying efforts are also underway to transport small rescue equipment and firefighters by helicopters if necessary.