19-05-2025
Fire accidents on the rise; CDAA calls for caution
Muscat, May 19
Over the past one week, there has been a surge in fire accidents in commercial buildings, residential areas and farmlands.
From January 1 to the end of April 2025, the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) received a total of 1,204 fire accident reports.
"During the month of May, the Sultanate of Oman experiences a gradual increase in temperatures, which contributes to a higher risk of fire incidents. The main causes observed during this period include poor or non-compliant electrical installations, negligence in the use of electrical and heating appliances such as air conditioners and stoves," First Lieutenant Ali bin Said al Farsi from CDAA, told the Observer.
He pointed out that other causes are open burning without proper safety precautions and careless disposal of cigarette butts near flammable materials. "Preliminary statistics indicate a relative increase in fire-related reports during the summer season, particularly in May and June. This is due to rising temperatures and unsafe practices by individuals or in various facilities," he said.
The firefighting teams of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority in the Governorate of Al Dhahirah were able to extinguish a fire that broke out in a house in the Wilayat of Yanqul without recording any injuries. Rescue and ambulance teams of CDAA in the Governorate of Muscat responded to a partial collapse in a commercial residential building in Bausher. Initial evidence indicated a momentary gas explosion resulting from a cooking gas leak in a restaurant.
The accident resulted in the death of two Asian nationals. The authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident. The CDAA's firefighting teams in the Governorate of Al Batinah North were able to extinguish a fire that broke out in trees in the Wilayat of Shinas, and there were no injuries.
A hypermarket also experienced a fire accident.
In Muscat, the CDAA, with the support of the Special Tasks Police Unit in Al Seeb, was able to control a fire mishap and prevent it from spreading.
Al Farsi explained that fires involving trees and vegetation are often caused by high temperatures and extreme dryness, which make dry grass and leaves highly flammable, in addition to careless disposal of cigarette butts or glass objects that may focus sunlight. Other major causes have been campfires or outdoor cooking without ensuring full extinguishment and agricultural or industrial activities near green areas without proper safety measures, he noted. However, electrical fires remain one of the most common types of fire incidents, particularly in homes and commercial establishments. "These are usually caused by improper and unsafe electrical wiring, lack of regular maintenance for electrical appliances and the use of non-standard or counterfeit electrical devices," Al Farsi stressed.
The Civil Defence and Ambulance Department in Muscat carried out a joint practical exercise in cooperation with OQ Company and the relevant authorities in Al Seeb. This exercise aimed to enhance the preparedness of emergency teams and improve their ability to respond to industrial accidents. It included a number of scenarios, including a crude oil leak from a pipeline and a fire breaking out during technical inspections, with a number of casualties.
The aim of the exercise was to develop field capabilities and enhance coordination among various stakeholders to ensure a rapid response and effective intervention in such emergency incidents. The firefighting teams of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Department in the Governorate of Al Sharqiyah South were able to control a fire that broke out in a warehouse in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, with no injuries recorded.
The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority has amended the application for suggestions, complaints, reports and inquiries related to its services - the Tajawub platform.
SAFETY TIPS
- Ensure all electrical installations are safe and do not overload power outlets
- Avoid leaving electrical appliances running while away or asleep
- Refrain from lighting fires in open areas, especially during peak heat hours
- Do not store flammable materials in areas exposed to direct sunlight
- Keep fire extinguishers at home and in vehicles, and know how to use them
- Call emergency number (9999) or (24343666) immediately in case of any fire incident
