General safety tips from DEMS as temperatures drop

As we are experiencing freezing temperatures and snow in some parts of Ekurhuleni, the City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) shared general safety tips.

DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi highlighted the extremely cold conditions do not only affect human beings, but also animals.

“Those who are owners of pets that generally sleep and stay outside are advised to consider keeping them in a warm place as well.

“Temperatures are expected to drop very low going into the week, leading to frostbites and hypothermia to those exposed.”

The city’s firefighters and disaster teams remain on high alert for the frigid conditions as forecast by the South African Weather Services (SAWS).

Communities are also alerted to remain vigilant, moreover when using heat sources to keep warm. As the temperatures drop, the risk of a fire in your home, office and workshop rises.

General safety tips:
• Be sure your heating sources are in good working condition
• Always keep monitoring heat sources
• Never leave children alone with a heat source
• Switch off air-conditioners and heaters, and put out fires in braziers in the absence of someone responsible
• Close all doors when leaving home, office, or workshop

In case of an emergency, call the city`s Life-Threatening Emergency Call Centre on 011 458 0911 or 10177 or 112 from your cellphone to dispatch the nearest rescue team.

Boksburg SPCA also reminds the public to ensure their pets have a safe space inside with enough blankets.

“If you suspect your pets have hypothermia or frostbite, please take them to a vet immediately. Remember, if you are cold, they are cold,” said Vicky Finnemore of Boksburg SPCA.

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