Civil defence calls for summer safety and protection

Children in vehicles

The authority was direct on this point — leaving children inside parked cars, even briefly, poses a direct threat to their lives. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, and no errand is worth that risk.

Flammable items

Residents were also warned against leaving flammable materials in their vehicles—particularly pressurised containers such as air fresheners, gas canisters, and lighters. Heat causes these items to expand, and they can explode, causing serious injury or damage.

Air conditioning and electrical systems

With air conditioners working harder than at any other time of year, the authority stressed the importance of regular maintenance for cooling units and systems. Neglected units are more prone to sudden failure and, in worse cases, fire. Running too many appliances simultaneously was also flagged as a concern — overloaded electrical circuits can overheat, leading to short circuits or fires. Residents were advised to use energy-efficient appliances and ensure all electrical connections are in excellent order.

Warning signs

The authority drew attention to the impact of sustained heat on electrical infrastructure—transformers, cables, and wiring all come under greater strain during the summer. Any unusual odours, sounds or unexplained power cuts should be reported immediately rather than ignored. Community vigilance in spotting these early warning signs, the authority noted, can stop a minor fault from becoming something far more serious.

Midday sun

On personal safety, residents were urged to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during peak hours, given the very real risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The Authority also reminded parents and carers to closely monitor children around swimming pools at all times, as the risk of drowning increases significantly the moment direct supervision is lost.

Poolside and storage safety

People often overlook the hazard of wet surfaces around swimming pools. The authority mandated the use of anti-slip materials in poolside areas and the consistent wearing of appropriate footwear around them. Residents and facility managers were reminded of the specific risks linked to warehouses and storage areas during the summer months. Disorganised spaces and the accumulation of flammable materials present considerable fire hazards. All items must therefore be stored in compliance with safety regulations and organised in such a way as to effectively mitigate risk, not just transfer it.

Gas cylinders

If gas cylinders are not stored properly, they can leak or even explode as the rising temperatures cause them to expand. The law was specific: cylinders must be stored in well-ventilated areas, away from any direct source of heat. This is not a precaution to be taken lightly.

Fire alarms and suppression systems

Buildings and facilities have been instructed to carry out routine maintenance on their fire alarm and suppression systems. This is to ensure that all components are fully operational and ready for critical situations. These systems act as the primary safeguard for early fire detection and containment; however, a poorly maintained system cannot be trusted.

Authority on alert throughout summer

The Sharjah Civil Defence Authority confirmed it will maintain its awareness campaigns and field inspections across various facilities throughout the summer months, with particular focus on cooling systems and safe storage practices. Awareness workshops will also be held to promote a genuinely preventive mindset among residents. The Authority's teams remain at round-the-clock readiness, and the message to the community is straightforward – engage with safety guidance, take it seriously, and treat prevention not as a seasonal reminder but as a way of life.