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Fire accidents on the rise; CDAA calls for caution
Fire accidents on the rise; CDAA calls for caution

Observer

time19-05-2025

  • Health
  • Observer

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

Run for Nation 2025 marathon to be held on July 27 in Coimbatore
Run for Nation 2025 marathon to be held on July 27 in Coimbatore

The Hindu

time10-05-2025

  • Health
  • The Hindu

Run for Nation 2025 marathon to be held on July 27 in Coimbatore

VGM Hospital and Kovai Athletic Club will jointly organise the 'Run for Nation 2025' marathon on July 27 at VOC Grounds in Coimbatore. The event promo was launched on Saturday by Coimbatore Mayor K. Ranganayaki. Organisers expect participation from more than 7,000 runners. The 2024 edition attracted 4,300 participants and was recognised by the Coimbatore District Athletic Association (CDAA) as the second-largest marathon held in the district. According to the organisers, over 20 organisations, institutions and clubs have confirmed participation. These include Karur Vysya Bank, CRI Pumps, Martin Group of Companies, along with educational groups and community organisations such as Rotary and Rotaract District 3201, Young Indians Coimbatore, and others. A key feature this year will be the involvement of more than 150 differently-abled persons who will flag off the marathon. 'Last year, over 100 differently-abled persons participated. This time, we hope to make the event even more inclusive,' said Dr. Suman, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Medical Director of VGM Hospital. The marathon will also serve as a platform to promote awareness about health, especially knee care, sports, and education. A medical team led by Dr. Suman will conduct awareness sessions across 100 institutions and workplaces in the lead-up to the event. Funds raised will be used to provide shoes, sports uniforms, and coaching support to students from 25 corporation schools. Cash prizes totalling ₹1.5 lakh will be awarded across various age and gender categories. The official event T-shirt was released by N. Devanathan, in the presence of CDAA officials and VGM Hospital staff.

Call for caution as fire incidents are on the rise
Call for caution as fire incidents are on the rise

Observer

time06-05-2025

  • General
  • Observer

Call for caution as fire incidents are on the rise

Fire cases in summer have become quite common, with losses of human lives and property reported year after year. However, a well-adhered-to safety policy and security concerns can help prevent these losses. The firefighting teams of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Department (CDAA) have called for a collective effort to minimise fire incidents during extreme heat, emphasising that safety is everyone's responsibility. With temperatures rising, the chances of sunburn; and vehicle and A/C fires are also high. The CDAA has urged precautions against such mishaps. 'Safety from accidents, especially fire-related incidents during the summer when temperatures climb high, is of great importance. Civilians and firefighters have a significant role in controlling such accidents and minimising losses when they occur,' a spokesperson from the CDAA said. 'As far as industrial fires are concerned,' he adds, 'a proper and effective HSE system needs to be developed and implemented, while all staff members should be well-educated on safety aspects.' Accordingly, a set of preventive measures should be taken by everyone in industrial and residential areas to avoid explosions. They include installing smoke and gas detectors on the premises, checking the surroundings of the house before leaving for travel or going away, storing flammable materials away from other materials and exposed areas, ensuring no gas flow is still running after cooking to prevent gas leakage and not leaving candles unattended to avoid open flames. CDAA further advised citizens and residents to take necessary precautions before heading to rocky mountains, as there has been a rise in unfortunate events such as fire accidents in various regions, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI). Nevertheless, these disastrous events may be caused by scorching weather, explaining the recent fire accidents across the Sultanate of Oman due to climate change. While industrial fires are mostly the result of negligence, as people give less priority to HSE standards and machines are subjected to work under extreme heat, vehicles are also subject to heat hazards. 'Those behind the wheels should take extra care, as there is a surge in vehicle fires in summer due to unmaintained parts, overheated cables and A/Cs burning due to overuse and defunct parts,' CDAA official said. He suggests a set of preventive measures. 'Always try to park your vehicle in the shade as much as possible, keep the windows of the vehicle slightly open when parked to emit hot air, avoid keeping inflammable materials inside the car, conduct routine checks on parts, fix loose cables, perform periodic changes and replace filters as needed,' he added that people should keep a fire extinguisher near the driver's seat, avoid smoking, as even a small spark can lead to a fire since vehicle interiors are built of plastic and other highly flammable materials and also to be mindful of switching off the engine immediately if you smell rubber or plastic burning inside or outside the car.

Ensure safety of food offered to people: Authorities
Ensure safety of food offered to people: Authorities

Observer

time14-03-2025

  • Health
  • Observer

Ensure safety of food offered to people: Authorities

Muscat: Muscat Municipality and the Civil Defence Ambulance and Authority (CDAA) have told restaurants and conumers to avoid Iftar meals that are not properly stored and endanger public health. Uncovered food may attract flies and rodents, exposure to air may force good to dry and alter its taste. Food poisoning can lead to painful symptoms, resulting from a person consuming food contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals. The symptoms of food poisoning vary from person to person, but there are some common symptoms that may appear after eating contaminated food, including: Nausea: Feeling dizzy and wanting to vomit. Vomiting: May occur frequently as a way to expel contaminated food. Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools, which may be accompanied by abdominal pain. Abdominal pain: A person may feel cramps or pain in the abdominal area. Fever: A high temperature in response to infection. Headache: A person may experience a headache as a result of dehydration or infection. Weakness: A feeling of fatigue and loss of energy. If symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, a doctor should be consulted for necessary care. Tips and guidelines: Wash fruits and vegetables before eating. Check food's expiration date. Ensure the utensils used to prepare food are clean. Wash your hands before and after eating. Do not leave food uncovered for long periods.

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