Don’t Let Safety Slip

The General Directorate of Civil Defence has urged citizens and residents to follow basic fire and safety requirements at home to help prevent household fires and reduce their consequences.

The directorate stressed the importance of installing smoke and gas detectors, which can provide an early warning of fires or gas leaks, particularly at night when families are asleep. Battery-operated detectors can continue working during power cuts and alert residents when their batteries need replacing.

Civil Defence also advised households to keep emergency exits clear and avoid installing window bars that cannot be opened from inside.

Residents were urged to keep suitable fire extinguishers, particularly in kitchens, ensure they are regularly maintained and learn how to use them.

Other precautions include regularly checking electrical wiring and appliances, using automatic circuit breakers, closing gas cylinders after use, and ensuring cigarettes and shisha are fully extinguished.

The directorate also advised keeping flammable liquids away from heat, flames, and electrical sources; maintaining good ventilation in kitchens and storage areas; and avoiding matches, flames, or smoking where there is a smell of gas or flammable vapour.

In the event of a fire, residents should avoid opening windows, as this could help the fire spread.