The Civil Defense Department in the Emirate of Fujairah has issued a stern warning about the dangers of leaving vehicles running in enclosed spaces.
This practice can lead to carbon monoxide gas leaking into the vehicle, which can poison, suffocate, and quickly kill occupants.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks
Brigadier General Ali Obaid Al Tunaiji, Director of the Fujairah Civil Defense Department, emphasized that running vehicles in enclosed spaces, especially during the summer, poses significant risks. He explained that carbon monoxide can cause severe drowsiness, leading to deep sleep, coma, and sudden death if not addressed in time. The general highlighted the critical need to avoid such practices to prevent these potentially fatal outcomes.
Preventive Measures for Vehicle Safety
Al Tunaiji stressed the importance of adhering to preventive measures during the summer months. These include never leaving children alone in a vehicle, even for a short period of time. Parents and guardians should always remove children from the vehicle, regardless of the duration of the outing, and ensure the vehicle is securely closed when not in use to prevent children from entering without adult supervision.
The director urged prompt action if a child is found locked inside a vehicle on a hot day. He advised either quickly opening the doors or calling the emergency number (999) for an appropriate emergency response. This quick action is crucial to preventing serious health complications or death.
The summer season in Fujairah witnesses significant temperature rises, which exacerbate the risks associated with leaving children in closed vehicles. Al Tunaiji noted that within minutes, the temperature inside a closed vehicle can exceed 40 °C, even if the outside temperature is much lower. This rapid temperature increase can be extremely dangerous and lead to severe health issues.
Health Complications from Heat Stress
Children left in closed vehicles can suffer from heat stress due to the rapid rise in internal temperatures. This condition can cause disturbances in vital organ functions, leading to heat attacks, dehydration, and respiratory problems. These issues can result in suffocation and death due to a lack of oxygen.
The Fujairah Civil Defense Department's warnings underscore the severe dangers of leaving vehicles running in enclosed spaces and the critical need for vigilance during the hot summer months. By adhering to preventive measures and responding swiftly in emergencies, the public can help ensure the safety and well-being of all, especially young children.