10 Jun UAE officials warn of car fires during summer months
Dubai Police and UAE officials have warned against leaving flammable materials inside cars as during the hot summer months it can increase the risk of fires.
Dubai Police described how during the summer months, an increase in car fire incidents can happen due to a variety of reasons. However, the main reason behind car fires in the city is the failure to get annual safety inspections and leaving flammable materials like perfumes, lighters or sanitisers sprays in cars.
First Expert Ahmad Mohammad from the Fire Section at the General Department of Forensic Sciences and Criminology at Dubai Police said there were 94 fires in vehicles from January 1 to April 10. He said: “Blazes were reported in cars, buses and trucks this year. The main cause was poor inspection or getting the servicing done from non-certified garages.”
He added that faulty wiring can also lead to a malfunction in the car’s electrical system and cause fires. He warned: “Drivers should have regular service checks. They must ensure to take their cars for servicing at reputable garages and avoid unauthorised modifications or using parts that are not compatible with the electrical system of the vehicle.
“Don’t leave liquids containing flammable material inside a vehicle. Motorists must also remember to disconnect all electrical devices in a car before leaving the vehicle because these devices can later overheat, especially when ambient temperatures are high, and cause fire.”
Meanwhile, an official from Dubai Civil Defence said drivers should check the radiator and engine oil before hitting the road. The official said: “Vehicles contain several flammable liquids and materials, and once a fire starts spreading, it can quickly escalate the danger.”
Additionally, Ajman Civil Defence shared on Twitter that the percentage of car fires during summer had surged in recent years. They wrote: “The increase of the engine temperatures can cause a fire in cars as well as leaving flammable materials inside the cars. Traffic accidents can [also] cause fires,.
“Monitor the engine oil, regular maintenance and avoiding smoking inside the car can prevent car fires.”
Mohammad urged people to leave their vehicles quickly and stay away as soon as there are any signs of smoke. He added: “People should know how to use car fire extinguishers and what to do during car fires. It is important not to leave children alone in cars.”
Dubai Civil Defence said that best action to take if there are signs of a car fire is to move away from the fire and call the emergency services or dial 997.
