Civil defence reports 76 heater incidents, urges safe use

AMMAN — The Civil Defence Department  on Tuesday urged the public to use heaters safely during the winter season, warning that improper use could lead to significant risks to both lives and property.

The Public Security Directorate (PSD) has said that there has been a noticeable decrease in heater-related incidents in 2024 compared with previous years, which officials attribute to increased public awareness, the Jordan News Agency, reported on Tuesday. 

Since the start of the winter season, the Civil Defense teams have responded to 76 heater-related incidents, resulting in 89 injuries but no fatalities, with the incidents primarily caused by suffocation, inhalation of emitted gases, or fires.

The PSD reported a 10-15 per cent decline in such incidents compared with past years but cautioned that the risk could rise as temperatures drop and heater use increases. 

The department also emphasised the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent accidents.

Key recommendations from the PSD include inspecting and maintaining heaters, refraining from refuelling while heaters are on, avoiding the use of heaters for cooking or heating water, and never leaving heaters on while sleeping.

Proper ventilation should be ensured, and the hose connecting the heater to the gas cylinder should be checked, the PSD said adding that heaters should be placed away from curtains and furniture, and high-quality extension cords should be used for electrical connections, with wires carefully checked for damage.