Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh has signed Telegram No. 06/CD-UBND, which aims to strengthen the responsibilities of local authorities, departments, agencies, and leaders in fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue operations across the city.

Fire prevention drill at Chau Long wet market. Photo: Trung Nguyen/The Hanoi Times

The telegram states that in recent times, Hanoi has experienced several serious fires, impacting political security and residents' lives.

In response, the authorities have issued numerous programs, plans, directives, and guidelines to enhance fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue operations. A key highlight is a proposal to improve fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue capabilities through 2025, with a vision extending to 2030.

Hanoi has inspected 37,375 rental properties, achieving a 100% inspection rate, and made all property owners sign commitments to put fire safety measures in place. So far, 4,999 establishments have finished their first safety steps. All high-risk fire-prone establishments in the city have been inspected.

Given the preliminary results, Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Tran Sy Thanh urged the heads of municipal departments, district, ward, and town leaders to continue adhering to the goals and requirements and rigorously implement the instructions of the National Assembly and Government.

The relevant parties are expected to fulfill their regulatory roles in fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue operations within their jurisdictions, focusing on strict enforcement, supervision, and adherence to legal regulations and fire safety plans.

Leaders of municipal units, departments, and district, county, town, and local authorities must recognize that fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue work is the responsibility of the entire political system and the public, not just the police force.

The chairman has also called for intensified efforts to educate the public on fire safety laws and practices, emphasizing the importance of fire prevention measures, evacuation skills, and handling emergencies. Additionally, households and home-based businesses are encouraged to install early fire warning systems, arm themselves with firefighting tools, and build fire exits to ensure safety and swift response in case of a fire.

Furthermore, there will be increased inspections and guidance for property owners and families to address any fire safety shortcomings found by the authorities. Violations and non-compliance with fire safety regulations will be strictly dealt with.

The chairman has tasked the city police, along with other municipal departments, to build on their achievements and strive for greater efforts in all aspects of their work. They must remain ready with personnel, equipment, plans, and strategies to promptly and efficiently respond to fire incidents and rescue operations, ensuring the safety of public assets and people's lives and property.