A nationwide campaign to protect motorists and prevent vehicle fires during Bahrain’s scorching summer has been launched.
The awareness initiative, led by the Interior Ministry’s Civil Defence in partnership with the Capital Trustees Board, comes as temperatures rise across the kingdom, increasing the risk of mechanical failures, tyre blowouts and heat-related vehicle fires linked to poor maintenance and unsafe practices.
The campaign aims to educate motorists on simple yet potentially life-saving precautions to reduce the likelihood of summer-related road emergencies.
It highlights key safety measures, including regular inspection of engine cooling systems, checking coolant levels and hoses, monitoring tyre pressure and ensuring engine and brake fluids are maintained at recommended levels.
Motorists are also urged not to leave cigarette lighters, aerosol cans, mobile phones, power banks or other heat-sensitive items inside parked vehicles, particularly under direct sunlight. According to Civil Defence guidelines, such items can become hazardous in extreme heat and may contribute to fires or explosions.
The campaign further encourages motorists to carry essential emergency equipment, including a serviceable fire extinguisher and a reflective warning triangle.
Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah said the initiative reflects a commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive public awareness.
“Summer places exceptional strain on vehicles, and many incidents can be avoided through proper maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines,” he said.
“This campaign is about creating a culture of prevention. A few minutes spent checking a vehicle’s cooling system, tyres or electrical components can prevent a serious accident, save lives and avoid costly damage.”
Mr Tarradah stressed that public safety is a shared responsibility requiring co-operation between government agencies and motorists.
“Our goal is to ensure that every driver understands the risks associated with extreme temperatures and takes the necessary precautions before setting out on the road,” he added.
Capital Trustees Board vice-chairwoman Dr Khulood Al Qattan described the initiative as both a public safety and community awareness effort.
“Many people do not realise how quickly heat can turn a small oversight into a dangerous situation,” she said.
“A forgotten lighter, an overloaded electrical accessory or neglected maintenance can have serious consequences. Through this campaign, we want to equip families with practical knowledge that helps keep them safe throughout the summer.”
Dr Al Qattan also called on parents to remain vigilant and ensure children are never left unattended inside vehicles – even for short periods.
“The safety message extends beyond the vehicle itself. It is about protecting every member of the family and encouraging responsible behaviour during the hottest months of the year,” she added.
Drivers are advised that in the event of a breakdown or fire, they should pull over safely to the far right, activate hazard warning lights, place a warning triangle at a safe distance behind the vehicle, evacuate all passengers and move to a secure location away from traffic.
Officials hope the initiative will reduce summer-related incidents while promoting greater awareness of vehicle safety across the kingdom.
With temperatures expected to remain high in the coming months, authorities are urging motorists to make safety checks a routine habit before every journey.
“Prevention is always better than emergency response,” said Dr Al Qattan. “A safe vehicle means a safer family, safer roads and a safer Bahrain.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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