Each year, rising temperatures in Qatar translate into an uptick in fires. According to government figures, the nation sees far mores blazes in the hot summer months than any other time of year.

To keep yourself safe, the Ministry of Interior shared the following tips on Facebook this week:

• Don’t run your AC non-stop. Air conditioners in Qatar sometimes catch on fire because the constant swirling dust can settle over electrical components, which could cause an overload and generate excess heat, leading to fire.
• Take your car in for regular service. Most car fluids are flammable, so when heat and electrical sparks combine with anything that’s leaking, fires can start. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained by having the battery checked, and the car examined for any electrical problems, oil or fluid leaks and/or rapid changes in fuel level or engine temperature.
• Close gas cylinders properly. MOI states that gas fires are considered one of the most dangerous types of fires. Indeed, a pizza oven whose gas had been left on overnight is said to have caused a deadly blast in February that killed 11 people. Make sure your cannisters are tightly closed and stored away from sunlight.
• Double-check electrical appliances and outlets. Electrical fires are among the common types of blazes in Qatar, due to poor wiring in many homes. Avoid overloading outlets by plugging in only one high-wattage appliance into a socket at a time.

Previously, MOI also advised residents to unplug non-essential electrical appliances before going to bed or leaving for vacation, and to avoid leaving exhaust fans running continuously because it raises the temperatures of the wires.

What tips would you add? Thoughts?