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Check for fire hazards at home ahead of Ramadan, UAE residents told

Authorities said families should abide by regulations that require them to instal fire prevention equipment inside their homes.

Families are reminded to ensure that their home kitchens meet all safety requirements as part of preparations for the holy month of Ramadan, the Abu Dhabi civil defence said on Wednesday as it rolled out awareness drives to prevent fires and other home accidents.
Under its awareness initiative called 'Safe Ramadan', the General Command of Civil Defense in Abu Dhabi has advised families to check their cooking stoves and electrical appliances and ensure they are in good condition to avoid fire incidents, especially as they prepare iftar and suhoor.
"Many accidents that occur in homes during Ramadan take place in kitchens. The fires may start from oil leaks when frying food using gas stoves, leaving the gas cylinders open, and electrical fires caused by faulty wiring and overloading plug points," said Col Engineer Mohamed Salem Haboush, director of the Civil Protection and Safety Department.
"Housewives and house helpers should be very careful when frying with oil and should ensure the safety of electrical and gas installations."
Authorities said families should also abide by regulations that require them to instal fire prevention equipment inside their homes.
Col Haboush stressed that all housing units must have fire extinguishers, smoke and heat alarms, which will alert people in case of emergencies.
"People must also avoid using faulty electrical wiring for appliances such as refrigerators, water heaters, air conditioners, and exhaust fans," he said.
Home and restaurant owners have been told to check the gas delivery tubes and not to leave cylinders exposed to direct sunlight. Regular maintenance of equipment and household appliances is also a must.
Col Haboush assured that measures have been stepped up and civil defence teams are well prepared to handle accidents and emergencies.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com