Muscat – The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has stated that there was an increase in farm fires in 2021.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, an official of CDAA informed that there were 873 incidents of farm fires reported from different parts of the sultanate in 2021, compared to 849 in 2020.

He added that the authority deals with various types of farm fires and fires in agricultural waste. “During the summer months, incidents of these types of fire increase dramatically due to high temperatures, dry weeds piling up in farms, and non-compliance of some farmers with the preventive measures.”

He informed that when a fire breaks out in a farm that does not have preventive measures in place, it causes extensive damage to property.

Advising farm owners to be aware of the fire safety measures, he said, “Fertilisers and pesticides should be kept away from the sun, cigarette butts should be discarded in a safe place away from inflammable materials, and waste should only be burnt in designated areas.”

Choosing the right time to burn waste is also important as windy conditions can result in fires spreading to other areas. “Additionally, the farm fence should be of durable material and of suitable height to provide protection. ”

The authority also advised hol-idaymakers who cook and barbecue near farm areas to douse fire completely before leaving.

It urged citizens and residents to try and douse fires, if they spot one, with available safety equipment and seek the help of those in the vicinity. In case of an emergency, they can call 24343666 or 9999.

On June 1, firefighting teams of CDAA were able to control a fire that broke in a farm in the wilayat of Barka, South Batinah. Earlier on May 30, a fire that broke out in a farm in the wilayat of Samail, Dakhliyah, was also brought under control.