Smoke detection systems to be made compulsory

New, advanced fire and smoke detectors displayed during the launch event organised by the Sharjah Civil Defence at Sahara Centre in the emirate on Thursday

"Early detection of smoke can contribute in avoiding and controlling tragic fire accidents. Early intervention will contribute in lowering the spread of fire and dousing flames before they spread," said Lieutenant-Colonel Sami Al Naqbi, Director of Sharjah Civil Defence, on the usefulness of smoke detector systems.

Lt-Col Al Naqbi said various awareness campaigns will be launched - particularly in the next three days - to stress the importance of installing smoke alarms.

"The cost of the smoke detection alarm is convenient: around Dh4,000, depending on the number of rooms in each home. We have allocated two attested companies that will be in charge of selling the smoke detection device and cover various residential areas in the emirate during this phase. In the future, we will make deal with other companies that adhere to safety rules set by the civil defence," he added.

The detectors have sensors that detects smoke at the very early stages. Some of the devices are for smoke detection and others for gauging flames and gas leakage. The devices work on a wireless system, and it works by transferring the sound from one detector to another, thus making for maximum alerts. The easy-to-use devices can also be connected to the police operations room.

Devices to be distributed free

According to Lt-Col Al Naqbi, the year-long awareness campaign will cover all areas in Sharjah and its affiliated cities, besides parks an shopping centres. "We will also educate society members how to operate them and distribute devices to residents of some areas free-of-charge. We want to inculcate the importance of protecting one's life into people's minds."

The Civil Defence at the Ministry of Interior has kicked off a campaign titled 'Smoke detector for safer homes', encouraging people to use the detectors at homes. Shaikh Seif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Interior, stresses the importance of implementing strategies that enhances protection and safety.

"The campaign will stress on implementing preventive and precautionary measures at buildings, warehouse and commercial outlets, to ensure fire accidents are curbed. We will also coordinate with companies selling fire detection alarms to ensure they offer it at a reasonable price."

A small price for lives saved

Dr Hesham Shakeeb, administrative director of the Firex factory in Sharjah, said that the company is the first in the emirate licensed to distribute smoke detection devices. Its prices range from Dh800 to Dh4,000, depending on the number of rooms in the residence. The devices can detect smoke in an area reaching up to 80 square metres.

"We are planning to visit a 1,000 homes in various stages, to increase awareness about the importance of using smoke devices, and connect them at some homes free of charge," Shakeeb said.
The silent killer

Lieutenant-Colonel Sami Al Naqbi, Director of Sharjah Civil Defence, pointed out that the the majority of fires at homes that claim many lives, primarily happen all of a sudden and when everyone is asleep, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.

"People must react immediately when they hear smoke alarms ringing, evacuate instantly and stay away from smoke and heat. Fire extinguishers should be used to douse the flames before it spreads; never stay in a burning house when the smoke is dense. Contact the emergency number immediately," he said.
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com

Afkar Ali Ahmed

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com