The presence of mind and quick response of a young have-a-go-hero saved the lives of five children when their car went up in flames within seconds of a suspected electric short-circuit.
Indian expatriate Adnan Nizar, 20, rescued his two nephews, as well as three children of family friends, after he noticed a strange smell and spotted what looked like a small flame in the engine of the family Toyota RAV4.
“I have been taking these children for their weekend football practice for the last few months, every Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 7pm,” the Umm Al Hassam resident told the GDN.
“We were leaving Al Ahli Club in Zinj around 7.15pm, after their Saturday practice, when I noticed a strange smell.
“A few seconds later, smoke started to come out from the right-side AC vent in the front, and I also spotted the reflection of what looked like a flame in the metallic gate outside.”
Jumping quickly into action, he pulled the five children out of the car and got them to safety.
As soon as he turned back towards the vehicle, smoke had started to spread throughout it. “After I turned off the car and grabbed my phone, I called the fire department, and a few minutes later the car went up in flames,” Mr Nizar added.
According to his father Nizar Usman, 56, a few brave locals dashed to try and help extinguish the flames but were only able to keep it contained, before the Civil Defence firemen arrived at the scene.
The totally destroyed 2013 RAV4 had to be towed to a scrapyard later in the evening.
The burned car
According to Mr Usman, the regularly maintained car had oil and filter changes carried out every 5,000 kilometres. The last service was two to three months ago, he added.
Mr Nizar was just glad to have been able to save the children in time. The young man is currently applying to colleges and universities, having recently graduated from the Indian School, Bahrain. He declined having his photograph published stating that he ‘just did the right thing’.
Due to the extensive damage caused to the car, investigators, who arrived at the scene, were unable to determine the exact cause although a short circuit in the car’s electrical system remains suspected, the owners heard.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
Tips from GDN Media’s AI-powered intern Dana Speaks
Here are some tips from GDN Media’s AI-powered intern Dana Speaks, that will help you ensure your car’s electrical system is in top shape.
Taking care of your car’s electrical system is essential for the overall health and performance of your vehicle.
1. Regularly check and replace the battery, a crucial component of your car’s electrical system. Make sure to check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them regularly. Replace the battery as recommended by the manufacturer.
2. Inspect the alternator and starter, which are responsible for generating power and starting the engine. Have them inspected by a professional mechanic regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
3. Check the fuses and wiring in your car’s electrical system for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any faulty fuses or damaged wiring to prevent electrical issues.
4. Keep your car’s electrical system clean. Dirt and debris can interfere with the electrical connections in your car. Regularly clean the battery terminals, fuse box, and other electrical components to prevent corrosion and poor connections.
5. Avoid overloading the electrical system. Be mindful of the electrical load in your car, especially if you have added aftermarket accessories like sound systems or lighting. Overloading the electrical system can cause strain and lead to potential issues.
6. Be cautious when jump-starting the car and ensure the correct procedures are followed to prevent electrical damage. If you notice any unusual smells, smoke, or sparks coming from the electrical system, immediately turn off the car and seek professional help.
7. Address warning lights: If any warning lights come on in your car, don’t ignore them. Address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Establish a relationship with a trusted mechanic who specialises in your car’s marque or older cars to ensure any issues are addressed promptly and correctly.
- By following these tips and staying proactive with your car’s electrical system maintenance, you can help ensure a smooth and reliable driving experience. If you ever experience any electrical problems, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repairs.
For more such tips and answer visit Home - Dana Speaks Ai
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