Dubai: "Sometimes, people stop their cars between two emirates to rest or take a quick nap. It may seem safe, but there’s a hidden danger many don’t think about carbon monoxide," Brigadier First expert Khalid Al Sumaiti, Director of the Specialised Forensic Evidence Department at Dubai Police told Gulf News.
"This gas has no color, no smell, and no taste — but it can be deadly. We’ve seen heartbreaking cases where people lost their lives in their cars because the engine was running and there wasn’t enough fresh air. The same danger appears during power outages when people use fuel-powered generators. If used in a closed space, like a garage or a room without windows, the gas can quickly build up and silently take lives."
"We’ve seen cases where generators are running in closed rooms on construction sites, often with no ventilation, and the fumes leak into nearby buildings. Sometimes, these machines are old or poorly maintained. The results can be tragic."
"One of the issues we continue to face, especially in the summer, is people sitting in their cars with the engine running to take a break. They often don't realise that even small leaks between the front and back of the car can allow carbon monoxide to seep in," he explained. "If the vehicle isn't inspected properly, it can become a source of invisible pollution—and a deadly one."
Brigadier Al Sumaiti also highlighted the risks posed by generators, especially during power cuts. "Whether it's a generator malfunction or simply being placed in a closed or poorly ventilated space, the result is the same—carbon monoxide is produced. It doesn't fully burn, and that’s when it becomes what we call 'the silent killer" he said.
"Carbon monoxide is called ‘the silent killer’ for a reason. It gives no warning. Victims may feel sleepy or dizzy — and then it’s too late. That’s why we urge the public to take simple precautions: Always check your car’s condition, never sleep in a vehicle with the engine on, and always run generators in open, well-ventilated spaces."
"These small steps can save lives. Stay alert — and help protect others too."Brigadier Al Suaimti said
The problem extends beyond parked cars. Power outages, common in remote areas or under construction site, under extreme weather conditions, often lead people to rely on fuel-powered generators. And while these machines can restore light and comfort, they can also become lethal if misused.
“Whether it’s a malfunctioning generator or one running in a closed room, the result is the same,” Brigadier Al Sumaiti explains. “Carbon monoxide forms when fuel doesn’t burn completely. It fills the space without warning. One breath too many in the wrong place — and it can be fatal.”
According to him, this issue becomes especially critical in summer, when people often sit in cars with engines running to escape the heat, or during construction site workdays when generators are constantly in use. “Even small leaks between the front and back of a car can allow CO to seep in. If the car isn’t inspected properly, it becomes a trap — a source of invisible pollution,” he warns.
Winter brings its own hazards. In colder months, the focus shifts to fires, Brigadier Al Sumaiti stressed the importance of spreading awareness through practical measures.
The Silent Killer: Carbon Monoxide
It’s invisible. It’s odorless. It can be deadly.
Never sleep in a car with the engine running.
Check your car regularly — especially the exhaust system.
Don’t run generators indoors or in closed spaces.
Always make sure there’s good ventilation.
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