Budaiya Blaze Highlights Rising Summer Fire Risk

Gas leaks, faulty wiring remain major hazards

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A house fire in Budaiya yesterday has once again highlighted the growing risk of residential fires across Bahrain during the summer months. Civil Defence teams swiftly extinguished the blaze, while the National Ambulance treated several people at the scene for minor injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

The General Directorate of Civil Defence attributes most home fires to preventable negligence, including the unsafe use of electrical appliances, overloaded circuits, and children handling flammable materials. During summer, air conditioners run for longer hours, placing additional strain on household electrical systems and increasing the risk of overheating and electrical faults.

Officials stress that regular maintenance, balanced electrical loads, and routine servicing of cooling systems can significantly reduce fire risks. Smoke detectors also play a vital role in providing an early warning.

In a recent discussion with The Daily Tribune, lawyer Afaf Tarada said legal responsibility depends on the findings of the Civil Defence investigation. “If the fire does not originate from your apartment and is not caused by your own negligence, liability may fall on the other party involved,” she said, adding that official Civil Defence reports determine responsibility in cases where damage spreads to neighbouring properties.

The National Civil Protection Platform also advises residents to keep gas cylinders upright in shaded, well-ventilated outdoor areas, regularly inspect gas lines and appliances, and close gas cylinder valves before sleeping or leaving home as these are another common source of household fire hazards. Installing gas leak detectors, preferably with automatic shut-off systems, is also recommended.

Authorities add that preventive measures should be matched by knowing how to respond if a leak or fire occurs. If a gas leak is suspected, residents should evacuate immediately, avoid using electrical switches or open flames, ventilate the area, and call emergency services.

The General Directorate of Civil Defence also recommends keeping appropriate fire extinguishers at home, including water-based extinguishers for ordinary fires and $text{CO}_2$ extinguishers for electrical and gas-related incidents.