Civil Defence Issues Safety Warnings Ahead of Eid al-Adha

Iraq’s Civil Defence Directorate has issued broad safety guidance ahead of Eid al-Adha, urging families and entertainment operators to take precautionary measures as holiday crowds are expected to rise across the country. The warnings focus on fire risks, amusement rides, boating, and visitor safety in public venues. The directorate banned firecrackers and similar pyrotechnic games for children, and said their use must be prevented near hospitals, commercial areas and trees. It also called on people using picnic sites to stick to designated barbecue points and follow all safety rules. For electronic amusement rides, the directorate recommended having a technical specialist present at the controls, checking iron and steel equipment for wear, and inspecting chains and connections to ensure they are secure. It also stressed that boats must be maintained and not overloaded. Visitors to zoos were asked to keep the prescribed distance from predatory animals, while recreation centres were told to inspect electrical connections and keep emergency equipment ready. The directorate said the 911 emergency number should be called in any crisis situation.