HOME fires are on the rise, and emergency personnel have responded to fires at homes and informal settlements. Experts share tips on prevention and mitigation.

Arrive Alive shares that not every aspect of a home/business is a potential fire hazard, but it is advised to maintain a high index of suspicion when it comes to any form of electrical appliance, gas and open heat source being used.

Also read: Early fire warning systems welcomed at eThekwini’s informal settlements

“To prevent home fires in South Africa, practise diligent fire safety habits: never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and ensure clear spaces around your home are free of dry vegetation. Maintain your electrical systems by regularly checking wiring and not overloading outlets. Install and test smoke alarms, keep fire extinguishers readily accessible, and have an emergency escape plan in place for your family. 

“In South Africa, a Medical Research Council report estimates that each year 3.2% (1 600 000) of the country’s population will suffer from burn injuries, with the vast majority being from poorer communities. This high incidence is driven by negative impact factors including the influx of people to urban areas, haphazard urban development, overcrowding, inadequate electrification of homes in low-income communities, paraffin and bio-mass fuels used as the primary energy sources, and lack of effective preventative and education programmes,” shared Arrive Alive.

Also read: eThekwini firefighters ready to combat complex emergencies

It is said that young children are particularly vulnerable, with death as a result of burn injuries claiming approximately 1300 lives each year.

Sources of home fires are attributed to

• Frayed electrical wires on appliances
• Burning candles
• Heaters/electric blankets
• Cigarette/cigar/tobacco pipe embers
• Fireplaces
• Gas leaks followed by a spark igniting
• Children playing with matches
• Burning oil on a stovetop

Also read: Another fire claims two lives at Kennedy Road informal settlement

In the event of a possible fire breaking out in a home, Arrive Alive advises that homeowners should always keep a small fire extinguisher and know how to use it. “Unfortunately, having a smoke detector and alarm in each room of the house is not common practise in South Africa, but it should be encouraged. These somewhat simple devices are inexpensive and easy to install.

“Electrical cables must be checked regularly, and warnings on appliances must be noted. Don’t leave the room where a candle is burning, a heater is on, fire in the fireplace is still burning fiercely, oil is on heat atop the stove etc.”

How to respond after a fire

• If someone has been burnt, follow the above steps and remove any tight clothing and jewellery
• If someone has inhaled smoke, move them to an area with fresh air.
• Call the ambulance service and fire department when there has been a fire or someone has been injured.

Emergency Number for Fire Brigade 10177

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