Muscat – A 32.8 per cent increase in vehicle fire accidents was reported in 2021 compared to 2020.
According to an official at the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), there were 808 cases of vehicle fires in 2021, compared to 608 in 2021 reported from different parts of the sultanate.
CDAA noted that there is a spike in vehicle fire incidents, resulting in human and material losses, during summers. ‘Vehicle fires can be avoided with a bit of care, proper maintenance, and replacement of worn-out parts, especially engine parts,’ it stated.
‘Motorists should adopt simple measures to protect their cars from fire, including periodic vehicle maintenance, pulling over if the engine is overheated and not parking or stopping near generators and flammable material.’
CDAA stated that safety mea-sures include turning off the engine and mobile phones when re- fuelling, ensuring fire extinguishers are intact, using only original spare parts, especially radiators, and getting vehicles repaired only at licensed workshops.
‘In case a vehicle catches fire, stop immediately, evacuate passengers and try dousing the fire using an extinguisher. Disconnect the battery if possible to prevent further spread,’ CDAA stated.
‘We urge owners to inspect vehicles at regular intervals and ensure the presence of a hand-held fire extinguisher in it. Also, do not leave children unattended in the vehicle.’
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