UAE | General

Air quality in Al Quoz worsens due to fire

Air quality over the Al Quoz area has worsened due to the fire, prompting doctors to warn the public who live or work in nearby areas to protect themselves.

  • By Nina Muslim, Staff Reporter
  • Published: 20:27 March 26, 2008
  • Gulf News

  • Authorities say the factory explosion and the ensuing fire have pumped carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide into the air
  • Image Credit: Hadrian Hernandez/Gulf News
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Dubai: Air quality over the Al Quoz area has worsened due to the fire, prompting doctors to warn the public who live or work in nearby areas to protect themselves.

Authorities say the factory explosion and the ensuing fire have pumped carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, a natural greenhouse gas, into the air.

Carbon monoxide, a tasteless, odourless and colourless gas, is highly toxic and can be deadly. It is commonly used in packaging.

Dr Bassam Mahboub, vice president of the UAE Respiratory Society, advised residents to stay indoors long after the fire has died.

"People should take care until 12 to 24 hours after the fire has gone out," he said.

"People should avoid going out. Use recirculating air-conditioners (A/C) instead of window A/Cs. Keep the windows closed," he added.

He said people with respiratory diseases, such as asthma and emphysema, were especially at risk. He said this warning served both adults and children in the area.

"People with respiratory diseases (such as asthma) might encounter worsening symptoms if they go out so they should take extra medication," he added.

Dr. Viktor Mikhaeel Butros, surgical-in-charge at the Trauma Centre, agreed, saying residents could take extra precautions if they were concerned for their health.

Anyone who live or work within the area and are exhibiting symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are advised to seek medical assistance immediately.

Low-level exposure to carbon monoxide may cause flu-like symptoms, depression, confusion, headaches and lethargy.

Neither doctor reported any complaints of breathing problems from residents close to the area so far.

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