Tragic Hospital Fire in Delhi Killed Six Newborns, Immediate Safety Reforms Enforced

A devastating fire at the New Born Baby Care Hospital in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar late Saturday night claimed the lives of six newborns. According to the Delhi Fire Department, a total of 12 infants were rescued from the blaze. Tragically, six of them did not survive, one remains on a ventilator, and five others are receiving treatment at the hospital.

The surviving newborns were swiftly transferred to the East Delhi Advance NICU hospital for further care. Upon receiving the emergency call at 11:32 pm, police officials and firefighters promptly arrived at the scene to combat the fire.

Fire Officer Rajesh reported, “At 11:32 pm, the Fire Service Control Room received information about a fire at the hospital. A total of 16 fire tenders were dispatched to the location, and the fire has been completely extinguished. Two buildings were affected: the hospital and two floors of an adjacent residential building. We rescued 11-12 individuals, who were subsequently taken to the hospital. Further details will be shared later.”

This heartbreaking incident of six newborns losing their life coincides with another tragedy on the same day in Rajkot, Gujarat, where 27 people lost their lives after a massive fire engulfed a game zone.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the Vivek Vihar hospital fire, ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

Immediate Measures for Enhanced Fire Safety

No Objection Certificate: All healthcare facilities must obtain a No Objection Certificate from the local fire services or an authority competent to issue such certificates. This ensures the availability and operability of fire detection and suppression equipment as required by local laws.

Quarterly Fire Drills: All healthcare facilities are required to conduct quarterly fire drills. In larger hospitals with over 500 beds, these drills must be scheduled so that each department and shift participates at least once a year.

Coordination with Security: Facilities must ensure coordination between the Fire Response Plan and security, access, and surveillance arrangements for routine and emergency operations.

Portable Exhaust Blowers: Facilities should equip themselves with portable exhaust blowers for efficient smoke extraction, with the number determined by the facility’s fire officer.

Proper Fire Signage: Fire signages and evacuation routes should be clearly displayed in vernacular languages. Exit signs should be placed at lower heights (1.2 to 1.5 meters) and self-illuminating strips on the floor to guide patients and attendants.

Functioning Fire Systems: Fire smoke check doors, fire protection systems, and fire detection and alarm systems must be operational and regularly checked.

Special Care Areas: Special care areas like ICUs and operating theaters should have separate compartmentation to contain fire and smoke.

Electrical Safety: Ensure that the electrical load does not exceed the system’s capacity, maintain air conditioning systems, and store combustible and flammable materials safely.

Water Supply for Fire Fighting: Maintain requisite water quantity for fire fighting and ensure its availability at all times by assigning specific responsibilities.

It is crucial for hospitals, schools, and other public places to be prepared for such incidents as they are unpredictable. Awareness and adherence to safety measures can significantly mitigate risks and ensure the safety of everyone involved.