As temperatures soar above 45°C in the region, the extreme summer heat brings heightened fire and life safety risks. Electrical equipment left in direct sunlight, improper charging setups, or overheated vehicles can quickly become fire hazards, when overlooked. NFPA codes, standards, and safety protocols are being actively used by government bodies and private organizations across the region, to help reduce these risks. This summer, take simple but critical steps to protect your space by following the below essential fire safety guide.
Residential and Commercial spaces
Fire safety depends on both well-maintained infrastructure and responsible behavior. It’s essential that all occupants are familiar with basic fire safety protocols and take the following precautions:
- Ensure that all air conditioners and fans are clean, in good working condition, and free of dust build-up before peak summer use.
- Avoid overloading a single socket with multiple appliances.
- Store flammable liquids and materials in shaded, well-ventilated areas, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, including cooking oils, paints, cleaning agents, any products containing oil or alcohol, paper, cardboard, fabric, plastic, and wood-based items.
- Install smoke alarms and fire alarms in in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test all smoke alarms at home once a month and ensure proper inspection testing and maintenance of the fire alarm system is occurring at your workplace.
- As a general rule, fire fighting should be left to professional firefighters. Fire extinguishers are meant for putting out small fires or used to help escape from the area on fire. Only those who are trained or know how to use a portable fire extinguisher should use one.
- Maintain clear exit routes including stairwells, hallways, and emergency exits.
Safety on the Roads
Vehicles are a major source of fire incidents during the summer months. Civil defense authorities in most countries of the region have been issuing regular warnings urging the public to exercise extra caution. Follow the guidelines below to help keep the road transport safe and fire-free.
- Do not keep highly flammable materials inside your vehicle – remove plastic water bottles, hand sanitizers, alcohol wipes, perfumes, and any other flammable items.
- Avoid electrical equipment on your dashboard, including mobile phones, power bank and other battery-powered devices should not be kept under direct sunlight.
- Ensure routine car maintenance, including regularly checking car batteries, wiring, and cooling systems and be sure to open your petrol tank once a day when parked to let out the heat.
Electric Mobility, from EVs and electric bikes
Electric bikes and vehicles come with its own set of fire risks. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, these vehicles can ignite quickly and burn at extremely high temperatures, making fires difficult to control and often releasing harmful gases. The precautionary measures below will help you safely maintain your electric mobility and reduce potential hazards.
- Only use manufacturer-approved chargers in dry, well-ventilated, low-traffic areas.
- Avoid using extension cords or multi-plug adapters.
- Regularly inspect charging equipment for frayed wires, heat damage, or other signs of wear.
- Keep charging equipment secure, away from hazards including water or flammable materials, and out of reach of children and pets.
- Consult a qualified electrician before installing EV or e-bikes chargers at home.
By following these simple guidelines by the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®), you can enjoy a safer summer reducing the risks of fire. And remember, whenever expert advice is necessary, always consult a certified professional to ensure full compliance with the relevant safety standards.
Stay alert and informed! Watch, listen to, and share public safety videos and tips released by authorities in your country, and make sure your family knows how to respond and who to contact in case of an emergency.
