Many shop owners on S.M. Street in Kerala’s Kozhikode yet to comply with fire safety norms

Most outlets have no fire exits; spaces for keeping extinguishers being used as storage area

Despite the Fire and Rescue Services Department’s call to streamline fire safety measures, many shops on the renovated S.M. Street and surrounding areas still have no fire exits, and spaces meant for keeping fire extinguishers are being used as additional storage area. Though surprise inspections exposed several such violations, many traders are yet to get convinced of the safety requirements that can save lives and property during an emergency. Since many shops in the highly vulnerable area deal in plastic and rubber products, the impact of a fire outbreak will be huge.