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Emirati mother's heroic act saves three children from fire

Ras Al Khaimah - The burning AC exploded just seconds after the children and their mother were out of the room.

 An Emirati mum saved her three kids from what could have been a tragic night: Fire erupted in their home due to a short circuit in their air-conditioner (AC), and she managed to get everyone out - a few seconds before the AC exploded.
As soon as the fire broke out in their home in Ras Al Khaimah's Khuzam area on Monday night, thick, black smoke filled the children's room with the faulty AC. With no way out through the door, the mother smashed the window and helped them out, one by one, before stepping out to save herself, civil defence sources said.
"The room was filled with heavy smoke. She could have died from suffocation, but rescuing her kids mattered more than her own safety," they said.
The mother was relieved to have saved her children's lives, especially when they saw the AC explode just a few seconds after their escape.
Alerted of the incident, the central operations room of the RAK Police immediately dispatched patrols, firefighters and rescue teams.
"Investigations showed that a short circuit caused the fire in the air-conditioner of the children's room, after which the AC gas leaked and the room was entirely filled with heavy smoke.
"The burning AC then exploded, just seconds after the three kids and their mother got out," the authorities said.
The RAK Civil Defence team cordoned off the house on fire and evacuated residents in nearby homes to ensure everyone's safety.
"The heavy smoke was first sucked out, and then water and foam were used to put out the blaze."
The three kids sustained minor cuts from the broken window where they were pushed out, while their mum suffered serious injuries in her shoulder. They were all given first aid when the rescue team arrived.
The civil defence team hailed the mother's bravery and presence of mind.
"If she acted too late - even just a few seconds - she might not have been able to rescue the kids, herself or the entire house."
The authorities urged everyone to ensure that all their appliances and electronics are in good condition, particularly air-conditioners that are now used for longer hours due to the rising temperatures.
"Air-conditioners running for long hours every day, low-quality devices, poor electric supplies, and lack of regular maintenance are some of the main reasons behind fatal fire incidents."
Back in June 24, 2018, an Emirati mother was left devastated after she lost all her seven children, aged five to 13 years, in a fire that broke out in their villa.  
- ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com