Azerbaijan emergency ministry urges fire safety during Novruz celebrations

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations has advised the public to follow fire safety rules during the Novruz holiday, particularly when lighting traditional bonfires (tonqals).

The ministry said bonfires should be kept away from residential buildings, vehicles, power lines, trees, and other flammable objects. Children should be supervised by adults at all times, and caution is required when jumping over the fires.

Authorities stressed the importance of monitoring bonfires until fully extinguished and not leaving candles on holiday tables unattended. The ministry also warned that lighting bonfires during windy conditions is especially dangerous and called on citizens to strictly adhere to safety guidelines.