Today's Edition
KIRSTIN BERNABE (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi authorities are stepping up community initiatives this summer, prioritising public health and safety while helping families turn children’s school holiday into quality time and learning opportunities.
In the spirit of Year of Community, local government entities are running a range of awareness and outreach campaigns for various segments, from motorists and workers to students and business owners.
Abu Dhabi Police and the emirate’s Civil Defence are on top of a broad safety campaign covering roads and homes, reminding residents of preventive measures for a “safe and incident-free” summer.
Motorists are urged to keep their vehicles in check, particularly their tyres, to avoid accidents on the road. The risk of tyre blowouts increases during summer as higher temperatures raise the internal air pressure and place additional stress on the tyre rubber, potentially compromising its condition, according to experts.
The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) recently launched a field campaign to educate truck drivers on the importance of regular vehicle inspections, especially amid the summer heat. In a video shared on social media, teams from the authority can be seen stopping heavy vehicles, engaging with drivers about precautions, and conducting thorough inspections, focusing particularly on tyre condition.
Home Safety
At home, families are advised to inspect their fire alarms, appliances and electrical outlets and make sure these are in good condition. The Abu Dhabi Police have also reminded residents to avoid “leaving smartphone chargers plugged in” and ensure water heaters are well maintained.
In another awareness campaign, the Department of Energy (DoE) is focusing on the safe and responsible use of electricity and gas cylinders, “particularly during the summer, when high temperatures lead to increased reliance on electrical power”.
The DoE recently released some guidelines on gas safety for both residences and commercial establishments.
“With rising temperatures during the summer, please ensure that gas cylinders are stored in safe and suitable locations,” it said in a social media post. Cylinders must not be exposed to direct sunlight or any sources of flame, nor should they be stored inside vehicles or enclosed spaces, it added.
The authority enumerated other measures: Gas connections should be checked for leaks using water and soap, in addition to installing detectors. In case of a leak, the valve must be closed and the windows opened immediately; then emergency numbers should be dialled without delay.
The gas valve must be closed after every use, especially before going to sleep or leaving the house. All household members, including children and domestic helpers, must be aware of basic safety pratices, the DoE added.
Supporting Workers
Workers’ welfare is another priority for UAE authorities. Besides the annual Mid-day Break initiative, which prohibits any outdoor work from 12:30pm to 3pm every day until September 15, various entities are going the extra mile.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), represented by Abu Dhabi City Municipality, recently visited labour groups in Al Wathba and distributed cold beverages and gifts.
For delivery service workers across the UAE, air-conditioned rest stations have been set up, allowing them to cool down and take a break in between orders.
Leisure and Family Time
Beyond ensuring that the safety aspects are covered, Abu Dhabi’s government entities also recognise that this season is a time of fun and family bonding for schoolchildren on their academic break.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) offers diverse learning opportunities for students across the emirate, from sports activities and arts workshops to cooking classes and AI bootcamps.
Dozens of programmes have been developed in collaboration with leading organisations, ADEK said in a previous report.
At parks, fountains have come up, too, as part of the municipality’s efforts to spread “summer joy”. The splash pads are activated from 5pm to 11pm in five areas: Al Shamkha Square and Al Khatim, Al Barjeel, Al Bayraq and Al Fanous Parks. Those who love the sea can go swimming under the stars at the emirate’s first night beach. Earlier this month, Hudayriat Island’s Marsana East Beach opened for night swimmers and will operate until September 30. From Monday to Thursday, visitors can swim from sunset until 10pm, with tickets priced at Dh50 for those aged 12 and above, and Dh25 for children aged six to 11.
