Abu Dhabi Police Caution Against Charcoal Heating Indoors

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Abu Dhabi Police have reported five suffocation incidents throughout the UAE associated with the hazardous use of charcoal and firewood for indoor heating, emphasizing the critical dangers of incorrect winter heating practices.

Emergency responses were promptly initiated for each case, averting any fatalities. Specialized teams managed these incidents as part of their commitment to ensure public safety during the colder months.

Major General Mohammed Suhail Al Rashdi, Director of the Criminal Security Sector at Abu Dhabi Police, indicated that these occurrences serve as a reminder of the potential hazards linked to traditional heating sources in confined areas without proper safety measures. He noted that the combustion of charcoal or firewood indoors can cause a rapid accumulation of harmful gases, endangering lives.

This advisory is part of a broader winter awareness initiative titled “Our Winter is Safe and Enjoyable,” designed to inform the public about seasonal risks, including suffocation and fire hazards arising from unsafe heating practices. Residents are urged to refrain from using firewood, charcoal, or electric heaters indoors without stringent safety precautions.

The police encouraged residents to maintain proper ventilation at all times while using heating devices, and to ensure heaters are fully off before sleeping or leaving their homes. Families are also advised to utilize approved, well-maintained heating devices and regularly check their smoke detectors and safety systems.

Officials stressed the importance of community cooperation in preventing winter-related incidents and encouraged the public to report any unsafe practices to protect lives and property across the UAE.