High-rise buildings dominate the skyline on both sides of the Huangpu River in Shanghai. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

The Shanghai Municipal Government has taken a proactive step towards fortifying urban fire safety and mitigating risks within the city through a set of new directives that are effective from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2029.

Outlined in the Opinions on Further Strengthening Urban Public Fire Safety Work, these directives are designed to elevate fire safety responsibility, enhance fire safety in social environments, introduce innovative governance models, bolster emergency response capabilities, and improve the welfare of firefighters.

Central to these directives is the establishment of a fire safety responsibility system, which stresses on enhancing fire safety responsibility at all administrative levels and encourages active participation from residents. District governments have been entrusted with spearheading fire safety initiatives, coordinating safety measures, integrating fire safety planning into urban development, and ensuring adequate funding for infrastructure and emergency response readiness.

Government departments are mandated to embed fire safety risk prevention into regulations and daily operations. Townships and sub-districts are urged to reinforce community-level fire safety organizations and establish professional fire brigades. Businesses have been tasked with assuming primary responsibility for fire safety, conducting regular risk assessments, maintaining functional fire equipment, and providing comprehensive training for their workforce.

Special emphasis has been placed on conducting proactive risk assessments, implementing targeted mitigation strategies, and enhancing fire safety protocols in critical areas such as historical buildings, high-rise buildings, and densely populated zones. The directives also address issues related to electric bicycle safety, the regulation of illegal modifications of electric bicycles, and management of fire safety at construction sites.

Innovative governance models, public reporting mechanisms for fire hazards, and the integration of fire safety education into community governance structures are encouraged to foster a culture of safety awareness.

To bolster emergency response capabilities, the directives advocate for the establishment of a comprehensive urban emergency rescue system, specialized rescue teams, and enhancements in communication networks and fire station infrastructure.

Recognizing the invaluable service of firefighters, the directives stress the importance of improving their welfare by providing better healthcare, housing, education, and family support. these measures aim to ensure that firefighters receive the necessary benefits and recognition for their dedication and service to the community.

Source: shanghai.gov.cn