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Fact-finding mission to fire site; PACDA calls for caution

21 Feb 2021

A high-level delegation on Sunday visited the Wadi Kabir Industrial Area where a huge fire gutted a large number of cars and garages on Thursday. It was decided to prepare a comprehensive report on the cause of fire and the damages caused. 

The delegation included H E Ahmed bin Hilal al Busaidi, Wali of Muttrah and Chairman of the Municipal Affairs Committee, Eng Redha bin Jumah al Saleh, chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI), and members of the Shura Council. 

They witnessed the damage caused by the fire and discussed  development of the area.

‘It was agreed to prepare a comprehensive report to know the causes of the fire and the challenges it posed to business owners and owners of industrial facilities. A study will be done to address the regulations that must be followed in the future in industrial zones, which could contribute to protecting the facilities from risks and disasters,’ OCCI stated. 

The delegation also agreed on the importance of finding appropriate solutions to protect the industrial areas in cooperation with the competent authorities.

PACDA cautions 

As a result of three fires recorded in Muscat in the last few days, the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulances (PACDA) has cautioned the general public.

Following Thursday’s fire in Wadi Kabir, on Friday, two other fire incidents were reported in Muscat.

An advertising billboard mounted on a pedestrian bridge at Al Khuwayr caught fire. The other incident was of a fire in a restaurant in Al Khoudh in the wilayat of Seeb. No injuries were reported in the two incidents.

An official at PACDA stated that if preventive measures are not taken on time, such fires can cause extensive damage to property.

Talking about reasons for fire-related incidents, the official said, “Sub-standard wiring and keeping electrical appliances on for long hours lead to short circuits and fire. Irregular maintenance of electrical appliances and engaging unqualified technicians to repair them can also lead to fire incidents.”

Listing measures to prevent fires, he said, “We urge people not to touch electrical appliances with wet hands and avail the services of qualified staff to repair them. One should always use quality electrical equipment.”

The official said that electrical appliances should be switched off immediately after use and serviced regularly. Smoke detectors in buildings too are recommended. People must adhere to the periodic maintenance of fire alarm systems, he said.

 

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