Jordan warns of heating hazards after multiple home incidents

• 16 people were injured in seven separate home incidents linked to unsafe use of heating devices within 24 hours.
• Most injuries involved suffocation and smoke inhalation caused by indoor fires or toxic fumes.

Jordan’s Public Security Directorate has issued a renewed warning over the unsafe use of household heating devices after a series of incidents left 16 people injured within a 24-hour period.

According to an official statement, Civil Defense teams responded to seven separate incidents involving cases of suffocation and injuries caused by indoor fires. The incidents were linked to improper use of heating equipment inside homes.

Indoor heating dangers highlighted

Authorities reported two suffocation incidents in Madaba and Amman after wood stoves were used indoors, leading to smoke inhalation injuries. Officials stressed that wood stoves are among the most dangerous forms of household heating and should never be used inside enclosed spaces.

Separate incidents were also recorded in the capital and western Irbid due to the use of so called “Shamsa” heaters, resulting in five suffocation cases. All those injured are receiving medical care. The Directorate reiterated that these heaters pose a severe safety risk and should not be used under any circumstances.

Kerosene and gas heater risks

Additional cases were reported in Zarqa and Irbid after fumes from kerosene heaters caused suffocation, leaving five people injured. All were hospitalized and reported to be in stable condition. Officials emphasized the importance of regular maintenance, safe operation, and proper ventilation when using kerosene heaters.

In another incident in western Irbid, a fire broke out inside a home after a gas heater hose malfunctioned, causing three people to suffer from smoke inhalation. They were transferred to hospital for treatment.

Call for public awareness

The Public Security Directorate urged residents to strictly follow safety guidelines when using heating devices, warning that misuse or negligence can lead to serious injuries and fatalities, particularly during colder months when reliance on indoor heating increases.