Civil Defense: Beware of the dangers of improper charging of smart devices and lithium batteries

The Public Relations and Media Department of the General Authority for Fire Services has called on citizens and residents to adhere to safety guidelines when using smart electronic devices and modern gaming consoles, emphasizing that compliance with preventive measures helps reduce fire incidents and safeguards lives and property.

In an awareness video, the department highlighted that key preventive measures include using original, approved, and specification-compliant chargers and accessories, while avoiding counterfeit products that may cause devices to overheat or ignite.

It also stressed the importance of avoiding so-called “blind charging,” which involves leaving devices connected to chargers for extended periods without supervision, especially during sleep, due to the risks this poses to users.

The authority warned against exposing smartphones and smart devices to high temperatures or direct sunlight, advising against leaving them inside vehicles or in open areas during the summer, as this can damage batteries or trigger fires.

Regarding lithium batteries, it emphasized the need to store them in well-ventilated areas away from flammable materials, and to avoid placing them in enclosed or unconditioned spaces.

For his part, Fire Major Ali Hassan urged the public to promptly report any emergencies by calling the emergency number (112), providing the operations room with an accurate address to facilitate the fastest possible response by fire and rescue teams. He stressed that quick reporting and accurate information contribute to saving lives and minimizing losses.

The General Authority for Fire Services reaffirmed that promoting a culture of prevention and adhering to safety guidelines constitute the first line of defense in reducing accidents, calling on everyone to follow preventive instructions to ensure their own safety and that of the community.