The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a ‘very high forest fire risk’ alert for forested regions in Jammu & Kashmir. This advisory underscores the potential dangers posed by the combination of dry weather, rising temperatures and reduced humidity, which create ideal conditions for forest fires. The NDMA has urged residents near forested zones to take precautionary measures to safeguard themselves and their properties from potential harm. The advisory, posted on the NDMA Sachet web portal, advises residents to close windows, vents and other openings in their homes to prevent smoke from entering. Additionally, it recommends relocating animals and essential goods to safer locations away from fire-prone areas. The NDMA has emphasised the importance of dialling the emergency number 112 in the event of a fire, ensuring swift action by responders to contain and manage any incidents. As per reports in the media, a senior officer from the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has assured the public of proactive measures to address the situation. The official stated that responders, including fire and emergency services and the forest department, have been activated to handle potential emergencies. He emphasised that the primary objective is to save lives and protect properties while minimising environmental damage. The advisory also stresses the need for caution in activities that could inadvertently trigger fires. Residents and visitors have been urged to ensure that campfires, cooking stoves, and other fire-related materials are completely extinguished after use. The public has been advised to avoid forested areas during this high-risk period to mitigate the chances of accidents. The establishment of operation centres by the JKDMA reflects a proactive approach to managing potential incidents and coordinating swift responses. The alert comes in the wake of similar warnings issued in the past, driven by the region’s vulnerability to forest fires during dry spells. These fires not only pose a threat to human lives and properties but can also result in significant environmental damage, including the destruction of wildlife habitats and ecosystems. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for community vigilance and adherence to safety protocols. This situation mirrors concerns raised globally about forest fires, including the ongoing devastating wildfires in Los Angeles in the USA. The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have caused significant devastation, with flames engulfing vast areas of vegetation and threatening residential neighbourhoods. Dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong winds have fuelled the rapid spread of these fires, prompting widespread evacuations and a massive response from firefighters and emergency services. The fires have not only destroyed homes and infrastructure but have also severely impacted air quality, posing health risks to residents. These fires have highlighted the severe impact of climate change on increasing the frequency and intensity of such events. The parallels between these incidents underline the urgent need for robust fire management strategies and heightened public awareness to combat the growing risks associated with forest fires. It is hoped that the residents living in vulnerable areas take the necessary precautions.