Abu Dhabi Police Warn Against Indoor Charcoal Heating

Abu Dhabi Police have reported five cases of suffocation across the UAE linked to the unsafe use of charcoal and firewood for heating inside residential properties, underscoring the serious risks posed by improper winter heating practices.

According to Abu Dhabi Police, swift emergency responses were deployed in all reported incidents, ensuring that no fatalities occurred. The cases were handled promptly by specialised teams as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public safety during the winter season.

Major General Mohammed Suhail Al Rashdi, Director of the Criminal Security Sector at Abu Dhabi Police, said the incidents highlight the dangers of using traditional heating sources indoors without adequate safety measures. He stressed that burning charcoal or firewood in enclosed spaces can lead to the rapid buildup of toxic gases, posing a serious threat to life.

The warning comes as part of the authorities’ winter awareness initiative, “Our Winter is Safe and Enjoyable,” which focuses on educating the public about seasonal hazards, including suffocation and fire outbreaks caused by unsafe heating methods. The campaign urges residents to avoid using firewood, charcoal, or electrical heaters inside homes unless strict safety precautions are in place.

Abu Dhabi Police have reminded residents to ensure proper ventilation at all times when using any heating devices and to fully extinguish or switch off heaters before sleeping or leaving the house. The authority also encouraged families to rely on approved and well-maintained heating equipment and to regularly check smoke detectors and safety systems.

Officials reaffirmed that public cooperation is essential in preventing winter-related accidents and called on the community to report unsafe practices to help protect lives and property across the UAE.