Emergency Preparedness Guide: What To Do in Case of an Accident or Fire in India

New Delhi | October 26, 2025 | News Nation Online

Emergencies can happen anytime — a road accident, fire outbreak, or medical emergency. Knowing how to respond calmly and correctly can save lives. This guide provides simple, step-by-step actions and important helpline numbers for handling accidents and fires in India.

🚨 Step 1: Stay Calm and Ensure Safety

In any emergency, your first action should be to stay calm. Avoid panic and ensure your personal safety before helping others. Move away from dangerous zones like fire, leaking gas, or unstable vehicles.

🚗 Step 2: Call for Immediate Help

National Emergency Number: 112
Police: 100
Ambulance: 108 / 102
Fire Brigade: 101

If you are on a national highway, you can also call the Highway Accident Helpline (1033). Provide your exact location, nature of emergency, and number of injured people.

🚑 Step 3: Administer Basic First Aid

If someone is bleeding, apply pressure using a clean cloth.
In case of burns, use cool (not cold) water to soothe the area — do not apply toothpaste or oil.
Do not move an injured person with possible neck or spinal injuries unless absolutely necessary.
Keep the person conscious and breathing — provide water only if they are fully alert.

🔥 Step 4: What To Do in Case of a Fire

Raise an alarm to alert others in the area immediately.
Call the Fire Helpline at 101 and provide the exact address and type of fire.
If safe, switch off electrical connections and gas supplies.
Use a fire extinguisher or sand/wet cloth to douse small flames.
Never use water on electrical or oil fires.
In case of smoke, stay low to the ground and cover your mouth with a damp cloth.

📞 Step 5: Use Emergency Helplines Wisely

Keep these important numbers saved on your phone and posted in your home, office, or vehicle:

National Emergency: 112
Fire Brigade: 101
Ambulance: 108
Police: 100
Disaster Management: 1078

🧯 Step 6: Learn Preventive Measures

Keep a small first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher at home and in your vehicle.
Ensure regular servicing of gas cylinders, stoves, and electrical wiring.
Attend basic fire safety and first-aid training sessions.
Install smoke alarms in your home for early detection.

📢 Final Word

Emergency preparedness is not just about reacting — it’s about being ready. Save essential helpline numbers, keep emergency kits accessible, and stay informed about basic safety procedures. Your awareness could make the difference between panic and protection.