Fire Safety / Odisha issues 3,937 fire safety certificates for temporary firecracker shops ahead of Diwali

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6: The Odisha Fire and Emergency Services Department has issued 3,937 fire safety certificates for temporary firecracker shops across the state ahead of Diwali, following the receipt of 5,043 applications in 2026.

According to the department, 84 applications have been rejected, while 943 are pending consideration and 79 are under the compliance process.

In the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Kataka, the department received 1,208 applications for temporary firecracker shops. Of these, 711 fire safety certificates have been issued, 25 applications rejected, 462 are pending and 10 are under the compliance process.

The department has undertaken extensive fire safety measures to ensure that Diwali celebrations remain safe. It is particularly focusing on compliance with fire safety norms at temporary firecracker shops and the issuance of mandatory certificates.

Officials are checking the availability of fire extinguishers, safe distances between shops, electrical connection safety and compliance with other prescribed fire safety requirements. Traders have been advised against selling firecrackers without the necessary permissions and safety arrangements.

The department has also issued a set of safety guidelines for the public ahead of the festival. People have been advised to burst firecrackers only in open and safe spaces, away from houses, shops, vehicles and crowded areas.

Children should burst firecrackers only under adult supervision. People should maintain a safe distance while lighting crackers and keep buckets of water or sand nearby. Unlit firecrackers should never be relit.

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The department has further advised people to keep diyas and candles away from curtains, paper, clothes and other inflammable materials. Fire extinguishers should be available at homes and shops, while emergency exits must remain unobstructed.

People have also been urged to use only approved green firecrackers and follow the instructions issued by the concerned authorities.

Odisha Fire and Emergency Services said it was prepared to respond to fire incidents and other emergencies during the festival. People have been asked to dial 112 immediately in case of a fire or any other emergency.

The department has urged residents to celebrate Diwali responsibly, stressing that caution is essential for safety.