DOHA: The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has issued guidelines and tips to avert accidents during Ramadan, when the likelihood of accidents increases.
“Your Safety in Ramadan” consists of a series of suggestions on how to promote safety at home and on the roads during the holy month.
To avoid food poisoning:
1. Check the expiry date of packaged food and make sure there’s no abnormal smell, colour or texture.
2. Foodstuff should be kept in a clean and enclosed space or in the refrigerator, if needed, and the dining space should be clean.
For protection from fire in the kitchen:
1. If fire breaks out in the frying pan, do not pour water into the pan as it will aggravate the fire. Cover the burning pan with lid or fire blanket.
2. When fire breaks out in the trash bin, cover the bin with a damp cloth immediately.
For protection from fire in the house:
1. A fire extinguisher should always be kept at home.
2. Children should not be left alone in the kitchen or near hot materials and electrical power sources.
3. Flowing dresses should not be worn in the kitchen and cloth with nylon should not be used.
When you smell the odour of cooking gas:
1. All doors and windows should be immediately opened.
2. Never use a burning matchstick near a gas cylinder to locate the source of gas leakage.
3. Avoid switching on the exhaust fan, and don’t switch on the lights.
Road safety:
A number of accidents have occurred on Qatar’s roads since Ramadan started, some of which have claimed lives. The MoI has issued traffic safety tips for the month.
1. Travelling well before iftar is encouraged as it is during iftar that many accidents occur as motorists rush to break their fast.
2. Children should not be permitted to play in internal roads in residential areas, especially at night. Instead, designated play areas should be used.
3. Avoid parking vehicles in a way that obstructs traffic movement, especially during Taraweeh prayers or iftar gatherings.
4. Avoid eleventh hour shopping for Eid. Instead finish it early to avoid traffic jams and shortage of parking spaces.
5. Be extra cautious when on the road during Garangao to avoid accidents as children would be going around neighbourhoods collecting gifts.
6. Pedestrians should use pedestrian lanes and ensure there are no vehicles approaching before crossing.
In case of emergency, contact 999, or 992 if the caller is deaf.
