The Ministry of Emergency Situations (FHN) of Azerbaijan has issued a critical safety appeal to the public regarding the upcoming Od Charshenbasi (Fire Tuesday) celebrations.
According to official information provided to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the ministry emphasized that failure to adhere to fire safety rules during holiday ceremonies—particularly while lighting bonfires—can lead to undesirable incidents and tragic consequences that overshadow the festive spirit.
The Ministry of Emergency Situations warned the population to strictly observe safety protocols during Novruz bayramı festivities:
"Holiday bonfires must be lit at a safe distance from buildings, vehicles, electrical cables, trees, and other flammable materials. Minors gathering around the fire must remain under adult supervision at all times, and extreme caution should be exercised when jumping over the flames. Bonfires must be monitored until they are completely extinguished, and candles lit on festive tables should never be left unattended."
Furthermore, the ministry noted that lighting bonfires during windy weather conditions is considered particularly dangerous and should be avoided to prevent the rapid spread of fire.
Od Charshenbasi is the second of the four festive Tuesdays preceding Novruz, the traditional New Year in Azerbaijan. Each Tuesday is dedicated to one of the four elements—water, fire, earth, and air—with fire symbolizing purification and warmth. While jumping over bonfires is a central ritual of the season, the Ministry of Emergency Situations routinely increases its monitoring and public awareness campaigns to ensure the safety of citizens during these mass celebrations across the Republic of Azerbaijan.
