The Fire Department on Monday issued a warning, drawing attention to measures the public needs to take against the risk of fire with the arrival of warmer and drier conditions and a recent increase in the number of household and workplace fires.

The fire service said that devices at the workplace and households consuming high voltages of electricity should not be operated simultaneously and in multiple sockets to prevent short-circuits or overheating that could lead to fires.

It also urged avoiding the use of extension cords that have been damaged over time and emphasized that in case of malfunction, the control of electrical installations should be carried out by experts.

The fire service also reminded the importance of having fire extinguishers on standby at home and in the workplace which it said could prevent a fire from spreading when used.

The statement also reminded the public to avoid using highly flammable substances such as kerosene or petrol when lighting fireplaces, barbecues and wood stoves that could flare up and cause fires.

Dumping hot coals from grills, fireplaces or woodstoves into trash cans or elsewhere until they are completely extinguished should also be avoided.

The fire service also highlighted the importance of regularly servicing and carrying out maintenance on vehicles to avoid fires caused by fuel leaks, short circuits and sparks from exhausts.

Last but not least, the fire department said that insuring your workplace and home against the risk of fire will help you cover any financial damage that may occur.

The statement urged citizens who see signs of smoke or fire to immediately contact the Fire Emergency Line 199, the Forest Fire Emergency Line 177, or the Police Line 155.