PEOPLE in Bahrain have been urged to be extra careful at home during Ramadan this year in light of the coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis, reports the GDN's Reem Al Daays.
There should be ample time between disinfecting kitchen surfaces and cooking meals, while no effort should be made to randomly mix chemicals to create home-made disinfectants as this could lead to lethal consequences such as suffocation and fires.
A renewed call has also gone out to people to curtail their usual Ramadan activities, especially during Iftar and family gatherings.
The GDN has reported that no majlises, ghabgas, Iftar or gargaoun will be permitted this year, while the distribution of Iftar packets on the road and setting up of donation kiosks in public places has also been banned.
The guidelines, announced by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier on Tuesday, were reiterated during the Interior Ministry’s weekly Al Amn (Security) radio show yesterday.
As Iftar will be limited to small gatherings, family members were urged to maintain social distancing and apply appropriate disinfecting and food hygiene protocols in households as efforts and awareness campaigns will also be intensified, revealed Civil Defence Centres group head Captain Dr Musab Al Khalidi.
“It is crucial to ensure the precautionary and preventive measures are properly implemented during Ramadan especially under these extraordinary circumstances,” he said.
“Ensure that electrical connections and gas cylinders are inspected, safe to use and connected correctly.
“Don’t leave the stove on or electrical connections unattended especially during peak hours in Ramadan – Iftar and Suhoor.
“Also avoid touching heated oils and sharp cutleries while rushing to prepare meals.”
Capt Al Khalidi said it was also crucial to ensure exhaust fans in kitchens are monitored while ensuring fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and fire blankets are within easy reach in case of an accident.
“Housewives who disinfect the house must be fully aware of the various surfaces and approved chemicals to use while ensuring they are fully protected by wearing gloves and masks with ample ventilation and adhering to official instructions.
“There are approved chemical solutions for precautionary disinfection and randomly mixing different concentrations of chemicals is hazardous as it may cause suffocation and pose a fire hazard.
“There must be ample time between the disinfection of surfaces used in the kitchen and the cooking of meals and the cleaning should not be excessive but within the approved protocol for household disinfection to ensure everyone is safe which is why it is critical to also always take the information from official sources.
“We know social distancing is emotionally painful for families – especially during the holy month – but we must follow the directives for the protection of all and as one team we will get through this temporary situation.”
