UAE safety warning: Don't use firewood or coal to heat rooms

Ajman - Residents are advised to follow safety measures while using traditional heating methods to stay warm as temperatures dip across the country.

Published: Tue 26 Jan 2021, 10:31 AM

By
Afkar Ali Ahmed

The Ajman Civil Defence has warned residents of the dangers of using firewood and charcoal or electric heaters in closed areas while sleeping.

A top official with the Ajman Civil Defence said that the residents who are using charcoal and wood burners to heat their homes during the winter are exposed to the risks of asphyxiation. “The smoke emanated from coal and firewood contains lethal gases like carbon monoxide that can even cause death.”

He added that residents of Ajman are advised to follow safety measures while using traditional heating methods to stay warm as temperatures dip across the country.

He said this warning comes in line with the domestic safety measures campaign launched by the civil defence as part of its awareness plan for 2021.

The official explained that the most prominent danger of the winter season is the indoor heating methods which result in the emission of carbon monoxide. He recalled that the toxic gas caused death of many people who were sleeping in less-ventilated rooms.

However, there were no deaths caused by traditional heating methods during last winter, the official said, adding that the department is keen to make the residents aware of the dangers of such methods to prevent any incidents.

He urged the residents to use firewood and coal in ventilated areas and put out the fire completely after using it. Electric heating devices should be switched off during sleep and children should not be allowed to approach them.

The official urged people to use modern heating methods that conform to the specifications and safety guidelines. They should also be maintained regularly to avoid electrical short circuits or technical failure that could lead to fire.