Stationed far from the command center and in an area with harsh weather conditions, the unit's commanders and officers always prioritize the safety of warehouses and depots. Among these, fire prevention and control is always a top priority, especially during the current hot season.

Accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Dinh Cong Hai, Deputy Head of Engineering Department of the Bac Kan Provincial Military Command, we went to Company 29. Knowing we were there on duty and recognizing us as "family," Lieutenant Lu Van Huong, the non-commissioned officer on guard duty, still insisted we sign the entry/exit log. After completing the "procedure" at the gate, we walked along the sweltering concrete road. In front of us, to the left of the road, protruding water pipes were laid out, ready for installation along the concrete road, approximately every 30 meters. Upon closer observation, we saw that the fire hydrants were strategically and comprehensively positioned in all key locations.

The Head of the Technical Department inspects the arrangement of weapons at the Company's warehouse.

Welcoming us with a firm handshake, Major Hoang Trung Kien, the company commander, led us on a tour to better understand the fire prevention and control work here. The unit's grounds, from the drainage system to the surrounding areas, were completely cleared of weeds. The warehouses and stations were free of flammable and explosive materials to create a safety zone. A sturdy wall and fence system provided protection, and each warehouse had an explosion-proof barrier, lightning rods, lighting, and a water supply system ensuring readiness for any situation. Approaching a nearby lightning rod, I read the clearly labeled red board showing the electrical resistance, weather conditions, and updated date.

Entering the warehouse, the crates of weapons and equipment were arranged in straight rows along marked lines; the rows of crates were neatly stacked on sturdy concrete pillars. Captain Nguyen Phu Kiet, his shirt soaked with sweat, was turning a crate into position. After a moment's pause, he said, "Besides arranging them in straight lines, we also have to use the correct batch, dosage, and year of manufacture. The markings on each crate must face outwards for easy monitoring, use, and maximum safety, preventing fires and explosions." Looking up at the ceiling, objects resembling bright red lanterns were hung in a specific order. As if sensing his concern, Company Commander Hoang Trung Kien explained, "Those are fire extinguishers that automatically extinguish fires in case of a fire." With its fully equipped and scientifically arranged fire prevention and firefighting equipment, Company 29 has never experienced a fire or explosion incident since its establishment.

Weapons maintenance company personnel.

Witnessing a simulated fire in the ammunition depot area, triggered by the Company Commander's alarm, the duty officer responded as programmed, quickly sounding the alarm three times in rapid succession. From all directions, officers and personnel—some carrying tinder, others scythes, fire extinguishers, and even buckets and basins—rushed towards the fire to extinguish it. With swift and agile movements, every scenario presented was handled accurately and skillfully.

After the simulated scenario, Major Dang Xuan Diep, his shirt soaked with sweat, enthusiastically said: “We regularly practice alerting people to unexpected situations like this, so all our actions and handling skills are always smooth and effective. We are always aware that fires and explosions can happen at any time, especially now with the hot weather. Even a small oversight can easily cause a fire. A small fire, if not dealt with promptly, can spread into a large one, posing a great danger not only to the warehouse and station but also to human lives. The duty shifts are always maintained rigorously, and all fire prevention and control plans are always ready.”

Officers and staff of Company 29, in coordination with the fire prevention and fighting forces of the Provincial Police, practiced fire prevention and control plans.

Lieutenant Colonel Dinh Cong Hai added: "Annually and periodically, in addition to developing fire prevention and control plans and conducting training to ensure practicality, we also closely coordinate with the fire prevention and fighting forces of the Bac Kan Provincial Police to organize awareness campaigns and training sessions on fire prevention and control plans, ensuring the safety of warehouses and stations."

It is known that the unit also regularly coordinates closely with local authorities and forces stationed in the area to organize propaganda and raise awareness and sense of responsibility among the people in implementing regulations on fire prevention and control, including forest fires. This is also a way for the unit to build a safety zone around its warehouses and stations.

Text and photos: DO KIM TAP