Are Vitebsk region shopping malls ready for emergencies? Evacuation in "Marko-City" showed
As reported by Marina Fando, the official representative of the regional department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, there are over 30 large shopping centers in the region, 18 of which are in Vitebsk, and the rest are in Polotsk, Novopolotsk, Braslav, and Novolukoml. The northern capital received maximum attention. On Tuesday, rescuers conducted an inspection with a planned evacuation at "Mega," and the next day at "Marko-City."
MЧС employees primarily focused on the operation of the notification system, accessibility of evacuation exits, prominent placement of evacuation plans, etc. In addition to shopping centers, other crowded places were also visited, including cinemas, markets, and large stores, which also have a high flow of visitors. A report on the monitoring conducted in the regions will be presented to the head of state by April 1.
Correspondents of "Vitebskiye Vesti" took part in the drills at "Marko-City." The "Pyramida" shopping center in the city center is always full of shoppers. Therefore, it is extremely important that all safety requirements in such a building are met to avoid collapse in emergency situations.
The drill alarm sounded in block A around 3:00 PM. Since it was during working hours, there were not too many people. Simultaneously, a fire report was transmitted to the rescue service. The escalator stopped, and the elevators opened.
Before the arrival of the emergency services, as expected, the staff and vendors of the complex began evacuating shoppers from the retail spaces and lobbies.
After the people had left the center, the staff, along with the rescuers, checked the entire area to ensure no one remained in the building, including restrooms and utility rooms.
As assured by Alexander Shatalov, Director of the "Marko-City" Business Center, the facility is equipped with all necessary systems, and the risks of fire, let alone human casualties, are minimal.
– We have one of the most modern safety systems, a smoke removal system, and an automatic water fire suppression system. The building is constructed with monolithic reinforced concrete, clad with non-combustible drywall, – informed Alexander Ivanovich. – Another feature of this complex building design is that one can access the street from almost any level. A total of 39 evacuation exits are provided.
The fire suppression systems are maintained by a specialized organization that conducts monthly tests. As for the tenants, according to the terms of their contracts, they are responsible for their own safety, but our staff monitors them and advises on safety matters.
– What happened in Kemerovo is a great tragedy, and for us, it's a lesson on how important it is to adhere to all safety measures. I believe that conducting such checks in our republic is the right thing to do. Even if someone is penalized for not complying with certain norms, it is necessary to prevent future tragedies, – concluded Alexander Shatalov.
The results of the inspection of "Marko-City" were announced by Marina Fando:
– The inspection of this facility showed that the alert system worked, but it was not clearly audible at all levels, which will be corrected. As for the fire equipment, the complex is fully equipped with it. There are some issues with the training of the service personnel in safety procedures; briefings on how to act in emergency situations should be conducted. We will keep this issue under control.
At the same time, the Ministry of Emergency Situations draws attention to the rules of conduct for the population itself. It reminds that when entering a shopping mall or any other center, each visitor must study the evacuation plan in order to know where to go and how to act in case of a fire.
If a person finds themselves in a fiery trap, it is necessary to cover their respiratory organs with a damp, or in extreme cases, a dry cloth, because, as a rule, people more often die in fires from poisoning by combustion products rather than from fire.
If it is not possible to leave the premises, then take all measures to inform rescuers about your location. Only with high awareness and responsibility from all parties can a tragedy be prevented.