1,189 Fire Incidents Reported in First Half of 2024, Civil Defense Urges Caution

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

1,189 fire incidents in homes, facilities, warehouses, and vehicles were reported in Bahrain during the first half of 2024, according to Brigadier General Pilot Ali Al-Kubaisi, Director General of the General Directorate of Civil Defence. He emphasised the importance of applying precautionary and preventive measures to avoid accidents, especially given the high summer temperatures, to ensure the protection and safety of citizens and residents.

General Al-Kubaisi explained that the main causes of fires in homes and buildings are negligence and children playing with electrical appliances and flammable materials like lighters and matches. He urged regular inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment and connections, avoiding the overloading of electrical circuits, and proper maintenance of gas cylinders, including keeping them out of direct sunlight. He also recommended having fire extinguishers on hand.

The Director General further stated that the number of vehicle fire incidents reached 402 during the first half of 2024. He urged vehicle users to conduct periodic inspections and avoid leaving flammable materials like lighters, gas canisters, and batteries inside the car. He also advised slightly opening the car windows to prevent fires.

To ensure the safety of homes and property, General Al-Kubaisi recommended that travellers disconnect electrical appliances, turn off air conditioning, close gas cylinders, and install security and early warning devices such as cameras and alarms for rapid detection and response to incidents.

Recognising the importance of public awareness, the General Directorate of Civil Defence has prepared various awareness programmes and campaigns for the summer season. These include training courses, practical workshops, and targeted campaigns on the safety of places of worship, swimming pools, commercial and industrial establishments, shared housing, vehicles, and fuel stations.