Baghdad Operations Command issues fire guidelines ahead of summer heat and harvest season

BAGHDAD — Baghdad Operations Command issued several precautionary guidelines Saturday to reduce fire risks as temperatures rise and the harvest season approaches. The recommendations, developed in coordination with the Civil Defense Directorate, aim to promote public safety and protect farmlands, infrastructure, and residential areas.

The command emphasized the importance of not storing flammable materials such as gas cylinders, lighters, or carbonated beverages inside vehicles, particularly during periods of high heat. It also advised car owners to keep windows slightly open, avoid driving during peak heat hours, and ensure tires are not overinflated before travel.

Authorities warned against exposing gas cylinders to direct sunlight and urged residents to refrain from keeping gasoline and similar materials at home. Households were encouraged to have water storage ready for fire emergencies and to avoid overloading electrical outlets, especially with air conditioners.

Citizens were urged to shut off cooling devices when leaving their homes and to avoid using low-quality electrical appliances. Attention was drawn to maintaining power safety in all cooling systems. Watering home gardens and operating water fountains in public spaces were also encouraged to help mitigate heat.

Efforts to prevent deliberate fires along riverbanks and near power lines were highlighted, alongside the formation of joint inspection teams to monitor safety compliance in malls, hospitals, fuel stations, storage facilities, and amusement parks. Military units responsible for territorial sectors have been instructed to deploy mobile patrols during harvest operations across agricultural routes.