KUWAIT CITY, Sept 28: The Acting Chief of the Kuwait Fire Force, Major General Khaled Fahad, has announced the implementation of new safety regulations for investment buildings in Kuwait. This move is part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing fire prevention measures across the country. One key project, which involves connecting these buildings to the Fire Force's main operations room, is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

In an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Saturday, Major General Fahad outlined the importance of these new regulations in light of recent incidents, particularly the Mangaf fire. He emphasized the need to intensify inspections on buildings, focusing on areas such as suspended ceilings, roof doors, basements, and storage facilities to prevent future fires.

The new regulations will now require all investment properties to install fire sprinklers, extending the mandate beyond the previous requirement for buildings taller than ten floors. This change ensures that all investment buildings, regardless of height, will be equipped with sprinklers to enhance fire safety.

When asked about the application of building codes to private residences, Major General Fahad clarified that private homes are exempt from the Fire Force’s safety requirements under the current law. However, the Fire Force encourages homeowners to adopt simple safety measures, such as installing smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and ensuring elevator and gas installations are approved by the Fire Force. These measures, while not requiring licenses, significantly reduce risks and improve safety.

Major General Fahad commended the proactive steps taken by citizens in implementing safety measures in their properties. He also expressed optimism about potential collaborations with the Kuwait Municipality and the Public Authority for Housing Welfare to incorporate fire safety requirements during the building plan approval process.

He noted that public awareness has contributed to a decrease in fire incidents. The Fire Force continues to monitor licensing issues, and fire safety companies certified by the Fire Force are required to submit monthly reports. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure all facilities comply with safety regulations, and building owners are reminded of their responsibility to maintain safety standards.

Major General Fahad stressed the importance of collective efforts, stating, "We are working together, and as the Fire Force, we operate around the clock to protect the lives and properties of citizens and residents."

Fire and rescue statistics

Between the start of the year and mid-September, a total of 4,056 fires were reported across Kuwait. The breakdown is as follows:

Hawalli: 562

Mubarak Al-Kabeer: 457

Farwaniya: 713Jahra: 556

Ahmadi: 656

Marine Fire Unit: 24

Special Operations Unit: 10

Northern Region: 141

Southern Region: 206Airports: 11

Among these, 918 were residential fires, with the highest numbers recorded in Hawalli (169), Farwaniya (174), and Ahmadi (169). Non-residential fires totaled 411, with 1,022 additional fire incidents reported in other areas, including transportation fires (739 cases).

Rescue operations numbered 5,997, with the Capital Governorate leading in cases (1,031). Additionally, 129 standby incidents and 45 special incidents were handled during this period.

The Fire Force also provided 1,033 public services, which were distributed across various regions, including 220 in the Capital, 157 in Hawalli, and 182 by the Marine Fire Unit.

Juvenile and arson fires

Major General Fahad reported that there were 396 cases of fires caused by juveniles or arson from the beginning of the year to the end of August. Of these, 184 were cases of arson, and 212 were attributed to juveniles using heat sources or flammable materials.