Sharjah safety campaign gives hands-on lesson in fighting fires

SHARJAH // A fire safety campaign from Sharjah Civil Defence aims to give residents hands-on experience in putting out fires.

The “Our Homes Are Safe” campaign being held in public parks in the emirate involves teaching residents how to avoid simple mistakes inside their homes that could result in deadly fires.

Sopan Shinde and his wife, Swati, came down from their apartment after seeing a fire truck outside Al Mahata Public Park. The Indian couple joined the crowd and took turns extinguishing a fire under the supervision of fire crews.

“We never had a chance to use a fire extinguisher, but now, with their tips and the training we had, we know the steps and appropriate ways to hold the hose and put the fire out,” said Mr Shinde, 47.

“It was really informative and helpful information for us parents,” said his wife, who is 36.

Fire crews showed people how to hold the extinguisher and where to aim the hose to effectively put out a fire.

Sadiqa Humaid, a mother of seven children, said the tips she learnt on Monday could help her save her kids’ lives in the event of a blaze.

“Putting out a fire is scary, but now I know how to protect my children if a fire broke out in my home,” said the 38-year-old. “These kinds of hands-on awareness campaigns are really good and effective, especially for parents.”

She commended the move to hold the sessions in public parks to attract families, and said she hoped such campaigns could be made more regular and held throughout the year.

“It will raise our awareness in a practical way, instead of simple brochure handouts,” said Ms Humaid.

Statistics show that many fires occurring inside homes in Sharjah could be avoided if residents were aware of simple steps to be taken if there is a gas leak or electrical shortage in their home, said Maj Hani Al Wahani of Sharjah Civil Defence.

“It’s as simple as opening the doors and windows, which can save lives in case of gas leak,” he said.

“Often, residents facing this problem turn on fans and AC units to clear the gas, but little do they know that turning on or off any electrical equipment near a gas leak can generate a spark that may start a fire.”

The campaign started on Thursday in Sharjah city. The next session will take place at Al Safiya Park on Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm. Sessions will also be held next week in the emirate’s eastern region, but locations have not yet been announced.

tzriqat@thenational.ae