Be careful when using heat energy sources as cold weather hits Ekurhuleni  

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The temperatures are expected to drop over the weekend in Gauteng. 

William Ntladi, DEMS spokesperson, said heat energy sources, if not taken seriously in terms of safety, can result in devastating consequences.

“Everyone is advised to be extra cautious when dealing with household energy sources going into the last section of winter season. It is not over till is over,” said Ntladli.

Snow is expected along Drakensburg mountains with the anticipation of low temperatures across Gauteng and other interior provinces.

Ntladli said fires can be caused deliberately, accidentally or spontaneously.

“Destruction by fire can happen at any given time through the year, however, more fires happens during winter season because of low temperatures experienced through the country.

“Mechanically, fires can be caused either by heating, cooking or lighting sources. In some instances, reaction from different chemicals mixed together, can result in fires. One must know the reactivity of chemicals more over household detergents.

“Leaving heating sources unmonitored is predominately a common unsafe practise during winter. Placement of heaters near combustible materials can result in fires inside homes and subsequently, properties are destroyed and in extreme cases, lives are also lost.

He provides the following safety precautions:

• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Keep flammable liquids such as paraffin, petrol and others, away from all heat energy sources.
• Don’t refill the generators while still hot. Avoid spillage as that can ignite the petrol and start the fire.
• Use appropriate equipment such as liquid funnel to refill.
• Keep heaters away from combustibles. Don’t place any type of heater in a confined space.
• When using Braziers, coal stoves or braai stands inside your home, open a window for ventilation. Don’t sleep with any of them still in the house.
• Fire places needs to be closely monitored as well. Chimneys need to be cleaned and be able to push smoke throughout to the atmosphere.
• Only approved LP Gas appliances should be used, and cylinders refilled by approved dealers as well.
• Always keep cylinders up right and follow the manufacturer`s operational procedures.
• Makeshift heat sources should always be avoided.
• Illegal electrical connections are dangerous, the outcome can be fatal. Only qualified electricians should repair the electrical appliances.
• Never operate any household energy (heat) source under the influence of intoxicating substances.

“Most fire incidents are caused by carelessness and lack of understanding towards heat energy sources. The attitude of the individual also contributes to the number of fires that are experienced.”

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