03 Jan UAE homeowners face fines over fire safety system
Homeowners in the UAE who have yet to install the fire safety system, Hassantuk, now face a potential fine of Dh1,000.
A cabinet decision in 2020 set a deadline of January 1st 2024 for all homes to fit the system, after several fatal housefires in the region. Those failing to comply will be issued with an initial warning, followed by the fine.
The wireless safety system is already in operation in public buildings, including schools and hospitals, and now must be installed in villas and townhouses. Apartment complexes are already protected with their own mandatory fire detection systems.
Hassantuk connects directly to a command room, allowing emergency workers to be promptly alerted in case of a fire. They can then verify it and send out the appropriate response team.
According to the Civil Defence General Command of the Ministry of Interior, most fires that occurred in residential areas in the UAE during 2022 were caused by electrical faults, incense burning, cooking, ironing, and smoking.
Etisalat by e & – who is involved with the safety scheme – said it has seen an increase of 500% every month for orders of the system.