Soon, Delhiites can get live practical simulated training experience on how to control fire

Delhi Fire Service (DFS) is taking a step towards improving fire safety in the city by setting up two virtual training centers. These centers, located at the fire stations in Nehru Place and another yet to be determined location, will offer fire safety training to citizens through virtual simulations. The establishment of these centers is expected to be completed by March 31, a TOI report stated.

The virtual training centers will provide participants with an immersive experience using stimulators to recreate live fire situations. Equipped with 3D glasses, people will learn how to extinguish fires and handle firefighting gear such as hoses and fire extinguishers. Each lab can accommodate up to twenty people at a time.

Different modules with specific time periods will be offered to cater to various scenarios. For instance, housewives can train in handling kitchen fires or exploding gas cylinders, learning how to contain the flames and effectively use fire extinguishers.

In addition to public training, firefighters will have access to more advanced modules that simulate factory fires or rescue situations in burning buildings. This approach aims to enhance their response skills by providing realistic fire simulations.

The fire officer highlighted several advantages of virtual training labs, emphasizing their environmental friendliness and improved safety. Traditional training methods often rely on controlled fires, which contribute to pollution. Furthermore, physical exercises pose a risk of injuries. With virtual training, these concerns are eliminated. The officer also noted that digital training requires less space.

Atul Garg, director of DFS, stated that these virtual training centers are the first of their kind in India, making them a significant addition to the existing training system. Garg emphasized the importance of equipping people with knowledge about self-rescue and early fire control measures, considering that Delhi experiences an average of 80 fires per day.

DFS has been prioritizing the modernization of the department. It has recently procured various firefighting equipment, including rescue tripods, mini robots, smoke ejectors, telescopic rescue poles, three modified sky lifts, and a snake tower. Additionally, the department plans to introduce drones capable of spraying foam from a cylinder. These advancements will enable firefighters to tackle fires at heights of up to 60 meters and navigate congested city lanes with all-terrain firefighting vehicles equipped with a compressed air foam system.