Residents are urged to be cautious this winter.
With the winter chills setting, in the Disaster and Emergency Management Services (EMS) for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) has said residents should be careful when using household energy sources.
“Leaving heaters unmonitored is still far too common,” said the spokesperson for the EMS, Mr William Ntladi.
He added that residents still believe that when they arrive at their home or offices, after leaving a heater on, they will find the rooms warm.
“Lives and property have been lost because of this,” said Mr Ntladi.
He urged residents to switch off all heaters when no one is in the room.
“Never leave heaters or air conditioners on overnight, unmonitored,” said Mr Ntladi.
Heaters should only be used in the presence of adults or responsible people.
At the same time, heaters should be centralised and placed away from any combustibles.
“Heathers should be switched off when you go to sleep. It is also important to note that heaters are not to be used to dry clothes,” said Mr Ntladi.
Keep all rooms well-ventilated when making use of a paraffin heater, due to toxic fumes which are emitted.
“Only refill a paraffin heater prior to usage and make use of approved refilling equipment,” said Mr Ntladi.
He added that electrical repairs to heaters and other household equipment should only be conducted by a qualified electrician.
“Gas cylinders should only be refilled at registered gas dealers. To avoid any gas leakage, regularly check the O-ring on the valve and avoid using other pipes like hosepipes to connect to a cylinder,” said Mr Ntladi.
In case of any emergency, call the Emergency Services on the toll-free numbers 10177 or 112 immediately.
Alternatively, residents can call the Ekurhuleni Emergency Services on 011 458-0911.
