Farwaniya Governorate leads in fire incidents with 259 cases

KUWAIT CITY, July 7: The General Fire Force responded to 1,476 fires between January 1 and June 30, 2024, according to Brigadier Muhammad Al-Gharib, Director of the Public Relations Department. Farwaniya Governorate reported the highest number of incidents with 259 fires, followed by Ahmadi with 233, the Capital with 231, Jahra with 226, Hawalli with 191, and Mubarak Al-Kabeer with 183.

Brigadier Al-Gharib explained that residential fires accounted for 354 incidents, non-residential facilities experienced 166 fires, and other locations saw 597 fires. Additionally, there were 367 vehicle fires and five marine fires.

The Fire Force prioritized quick responses to rescue cases, handling 2,914 rescues and receiving 10 false reports in the year's first six months. The Fire Force responded to 7,735 incidents, including fires, rescues, and other emergencies. Brigadier Al-Gharib highlighted the efficiency of their strategy, overseen by acting head Major General Khaled Abdullah Fahd.

Fines for safety violations can reach up to 50,000 dinars, and administrative closures are enforced to ensure compliance. These measures have led to a decrease in fires in industrial areas and buildings under construction. The prevention sector closed 345 facilities for safety violations, with the Capital Governorate seeing the most closures (106), followed by Mubarak Al-Kabeer (61). The sector recorded 2,617 violations.

Electrical short circuits and children playing with fire are major causes of fires, emphasized Brigadier Al-Gharib. He urged residents to install fire extinguishers and smoke and gas detectors in their homes. He also highlighted a project to link fire systems in buildings with firefighting operations, which enhances community safety. The project categorizes buildings into three groups: modern buildings, older buildings needing updates, and buildings without systems that require new installations.

Brigadier Al-Gharib called on citizens to adhere to safety regulations and equip their homes with necessary fire safety tools to protect their families and property.