Stay safe this winter
With winter upon us, the South African Weather Services cautions the public of extreme cold weather conditions that will be experienced in the interior parts of the country.
Temperatures are said to be very low and as a result, members of the public are being warned to be extra cautious when keeping themselves warm using different household energy sources throughout the entire winter season.
In some parts of the country lives, properties and many other valuables have been lost already due to fire-related incidents. Subsequent to that, Ekurhuleni Emergency Services is on high alert and ready to mitigate any fire-related challenges which might be experienced over the cold winter season.
All types of heaters, paraffin lamps and stoves, fireplaces, braziers, dry vegetation around residential areas, over-loading of electricity, including self-connections are some of the common causes of devastating fire-related incidents.
High dry vegetation around the buildings and fences can cause structural fires more over the thatch roof structures.
Most of the fires are caused by negligence and lack of understanding towards heat sources. The attitude of the individuals also contributes to the number of devastating fires incidents.
Safety tips
* Never leave an on heaters unattended at home, office premises and all other structures, as this might result in unnecessary fires. Always place heaters in the centre of the room, away from any easy burning material.
* Avoid leaving heaters switched on overnight while sleeping or during the day in the absence of anybody at home.
* Matches are not toys, keep them away from children. Children playing with lighters and matches have high possibilities of causing devastating fires which might result in injuries or death.
Paraffin
* For paraffin appliances use clear and clean paraffin, do not mix it with other flammable liquids.
* Refill before usage or let it cool off first before refilling again.
* Use appropriate refilling liquid funnel to avoid spillage.
* Keep all other flammable liquids away from the heat sources.
* Keep paraffin appliances away from children.
* Keep curtains away from the all heat sources.
In case of burn wounds
* Use cold water only, nothing else for burn wounds.
* Medical burn shields are the only approved wound dressings for burn wounds.
In case of an emergency, contact 10177, 112 from cellphones, or 011 458 0911 for life-threatening emergencies. – @CarmenBoksburg
