Civil Defense guidelines for the safe use of kerosene heaters
The General Directorate of Civil Defense in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia renewed its warnings and awareness guidelines for citizens and residents, stressing the need to exercise the utmost caution when using various heating methods, specifically kerosene heaters , which are frequently used with the drop in temperatures and the arrival of cold waves.
In its awareness statement, the directorate emphasized the importance of adhering to four essential preventative measures that cannot be overlooked to ensure a safe and accident-free winter. These measures include filling the heater with fuel outside the house to prevent fuel leaks or fires inside rooms, and taking extreme care to prevent children from approaching or tampering with the heater to avoid burns or it falling over.
The instructions also emphasized the importance of completely turning off the heater when leaving the house or going to sleep , as this is one of the most dangerous times when suffocation or fire incidents can occur without the residents being aware. Finally, they stressed the need to place the heater in a safe location , away from narrow passageways and flammable furnishings such as curtains and upholstery.
Context of warnings and winter risks
These warnings come as part of the ongoing efforts undertaken annually by the Civil Defense with the arrival of winter, when the Kingdom's regions experience a significant drop in temperatures, prompting families to use various heating methods. Kerosene heaters are a common and traditional option, but their misuse can transform them from a source of warmth into a serious hazard.
From a scientific and preventative standpoint, the greatest danger of using fuel heaters indoors lies in the potential emission of carbon monoxide, known as the "silent killer," which results from the incomplete combustion of fuel in the absence of ventilation. This colorless and odorless gas can cause suffocation and death while the victim is asleep, making regular ventilation crucial. Furthermore, there is the risk of house fires, often caused by negligence or proximity to flammable materials.
Emergency and contact numbers
In closing, the General Directorate of Civil Defense urged everyone to follow its official platforms on media outlets and social media channels for accurate and up-to-date information. It also reiterated the unified emergency numbers for requesting immediate assistance in emergencies: 911 in the Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, and Eastern Province regions, and 998 in the rest of the Kingdom. The Directorate wished everyone safety and well-being.
