City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services remains on high alert following an adverse weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service.

The warning includes a Yellow Level 2 alert for severe thunderstorms and very low temperatures. Parts of Ekurhuleni are currently experiencing heavy downpours accompanied by strong winds.

DEMS has urged residents to take extra precautions, particularly when using heaters and other heating devices to keep warm during the cold weather.

Residents have been advised to monitor heaters while they are in use and to keep them away from children. Heating appliances should also be placed at least one metre away from combustible materials such as bed linen, tablecloths and curtains.

DEMS further warned residents to switch off all heating sources before going to bed to reduce the risk of household fires.

The emergency services also cautioned residents against making open fires outdoors, as strong winds can cause flames to spread rapidly and turn a small fire into a major blaze.

The risk is particularly high in informal settlements where structures are built close together, as fires can quickly spread from one structure to another.

Residents have also been urged not to discard lit cigarette butts carelessly, as dry vegetation can easily catch fire and strong winds can cause veld fires to spread rapidly.

In the event of a fire or any life-threatening emergency, members of the public are encouraged to contact DEMS on 011 458 0911 so that emergency response teams can be dispatched promptly.