Abu Dhabi: Following a gas leak that led to an explosion in Building 1 of the Saadiyat Beach Residences on Tuesday evening, the Civil Defence has released a set of guidelines for the public to follow to prevent such untoward incidents.
According to the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), which manages the property, one person was injured in the incident and hospitalised but in a stable condition.
The explosion that took place on the fourth floor of the building resulted in damage to the wall of an adjacent balcony.
TDIC confirmed that the authorities have given clearance to tenants in the first, second, third and fifth floors to move back into their homes.
In view of the accident, the Civil Defence has warned against turning on lights or fans when a gas leak since a spark from a switch could lead to an explosion.
Captain Abdullah Al Tamimi, head of the Customer Service and Public Relations department at the Civil Defence, also highlighted the importance of storing cylinders clear of children and sunlight and to ensure that safety equipment is provided in the kitchen. It is vital to regularly clean oil from ovens and stoves, and to constantly maintain the upkeep of exhaust fans in the kitchen as they could also contain flammable residues.
Children must be monitored at all times, especially in the kitchen, as they could be carrying matches, lighters and other dangerous objects. Lighting in kitchens must be good enough to be able to clearly see all surfaces, Al Tamimi added.
Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of the leak that led to the explosion in the building.
