Mumbai logs 137 firecracker fires in 24 hours; fire brigade urges bursting crackers in open spaces

The Mumbai Fire Brigade has issued an advisory asking residents to burst firecrackers only in open spaces. The advisory comes after about 137 fire incidents were recorded in the city within 24 hours.

According to the BMC, Mumbai saw 142 fire incidents on Sunday alone, of which 137 were caused by firecrackers. Two women were injured in these incidents.

Municipal corporation figures also show the picture from previous years. During Diwali 2024, Mumbai recorded 262 fire incidents, of which 80 were caused by firecrackers. Three people were injured that year. In 2025, the city saw 289 fire incidents, of which 113 were caused by firecrackers. No injuries or deaths were reported that year.

The fire brigade has asked people to keep a safe distance while bursting firecrackers. Crackers should not be set off near buildings, huts, shops, parking areas, petrol pumps, electricity transformers and overhead power lines. It has also advised keeping a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby. When children burst crackers, parents should stay with them and keep watch.

The BMC has also appealed to people not to light firecrackers while holding them in the hand. Rockets and other crackers that go up in the air should not be fired towards buildings. People have also been told not to relight crackers that have already burnt or failed to go off.

On clothing, the fire brigade advises against wearing loose or synthetic clothes while bursting crackers. Cotton clothes should be worn if possible. Paper, cloth and other easily flammable material should not be kept on terraces, balconies, near windows or around the house.

If a fire breaks out, people should not panic. They should move to a safe place immediately and inform the fire brigade.

In case of a fire or any other emergency, the BMC has asked people to call the Mumbai Fire Brigade immediately on 101. The fire brigade can also be reached on 9076333101, 9076333102, 9076333103, 9076333104 and 9076333105. The municipal corporation's helpline 1916 can also be called for assistance.

The Mumbai Fire Brigade has appealed to people to put safety above all in their Diwali celebrations and to follow the prescribed fire safety measures to protect lives and property.