With the UAE entering its peak heat season, the risk of fires naturally rises. From households to high-rise offices, air conditioning units are running at full capacity, kitchens stay busy for gatherings, and more residents take to the outdoors for late-evening barbecues and desert escapes. All of these add pressure on electrical systems and increase exposure to heat-sensitive materials.
To address this, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has issued practical guidance tailored to environments like Dubai. These tips don’t just align with international standards—they mirror what the Dubai Civil Defence and local municipalities recommend for safer living and working conditions across the emirates.
Preventing Fires at Home: Small Steps That Save Lives
Dubai’s residential areas—whether villa communities or apartment towers—face specific fire hazards during the summer months. Many are avoidable with routine care and attention.
- Don’t overload sockets, especially with multiple cooling devices in one area. Spread out your appliances and unplug unused items.
- Check electrical cords and plugs for damage. Any frayed wires or melted plastic are a red flag.
- Install smoke alarms in key zones like kitchens, living rooms, and near bedrooms. Replace batteries annually.
- Be mindful during cooking. A moment of distraction can quickly turn into an emergency, especially with oil-based frying.
- Keep flammable sprays and products (like perfumes and aerosols) in shaded, well-ventilated cupboards—not exposed to direct sunlight.
Most home fires in Dubai are traced back to either poor electrical maintenance or unattended cooking. Awareness and action go hand in hand.
Fire Safety in Dubai Workplaces: Keep Staff and Property Secure
Offices, restaurants, warehouses, and retail spaces in Dubai face different kinds of fire hazards, particularly during the summer. Overworked air conditioning systems, electrical equipment, and storage of flammable goods all contribute to increased risk.
Here are practical steps businesses should take:
- Carry out fire drills regularly and ensure all staff are aware of exit routes and emergency protocols.
- Check fire extinguishers for expiry or damage. These should be easily accessible in high-risk areas like kitchens or server rooms.
- Keep escape paths clear at all times—cluttered corridors or locked exits can turn dangerous quickly in an emergency.
- Avoid stacking flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, or cleaning supplies near electrical equipment.
- If operating a restaurant or café, make sure kitchen staff are trained in fire response, especially during busy hours.
Several fire incidents in commercial properties have been traced to poor maintenance or lack of training. Prevention begins with daily habits and leadership.
Don’t Ignore Fire Risks Outdoors and On the Move
Summer evenings in Dubai often mean barbecues, beach picnics, and desert camping trips. But open flames, portable grills, and improperly stored fuels can be dangerous if not handled correctly.
Stay safe outdoors with these simple precautions:
- Use designated BBQ zones in parks or private spaces and never light fires near dry vegetation or tents.
- Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close at hand when grilling or camping.
- Do not leave campfires unattended. Extinguish all flames before leaving the site.
- Keep gas cylinders upright and away from direct sun, especially in parked vehicles.
- Avoid charging power banks or electronics in cars under direct sunlight—heat build-up can trigger thermal reactions.
Similarly, car fires during the summer are often linked to poor maintenance or overheating. Ensure your vehicle is serviced, coolant levels are checked, and carry a compact fire extinguisher, particularly for long or off-road drives.
What to Do If a Fire Breaks Out
While the goal is prevention, it’s just as important to know how to respond if a fire does occur.
- Stay calm and evacuate the area immediately—do not attempt to collect personal belongings.
- If the fire is small and contained, use a fire extinguisher only if you’ve been trained. Otherwise, exit.
- Alert others around you and call 998 for Dubai Civil Defence as soon as you are in a safe location.
- Do not use lifts; take the stairs.
- Assist elderly residents, children, or individuals with disabilities during evacuation.
Quick, informed decisions save lives. Practise exit routes in your home and workplace to ensure everyone knows how to react without panic.
Fire Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
Dubai continues to enhance its safety standards across residential and commercial sectors, but the responsibility lies with each resident, employer, and property manager. Fire safety during the summer is about being proactive—not just reacting when it’s too late.
With guidance from the NFPA and the support of local authorities, adopting even a few of these precautions can drastically reduce the risk of accidents this season.
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