Prevent fires, save lives
Winter season is fast approaching and cold weather conditions have already been experienced.
The Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services has pleaded for people to be extra cautious when dealing with household energy sources.
“We wish to give some useful safety tips to our communities, in the effort of saving lives and properties,” said EMS media liaison officer William Ntladi.
He advised the following:
Safe use of heaters:
Leaving heaters unmonitored is still a far too common practice by most.
“People still believe that when they arrive in their offices or homes, they should find them warm already and, subsequent to that, lots of properties and lives are lost due to fires,” said Ntladi.
* Switch all heaters and air-conditioners off in the absence of an adult.
* Never leave heaters or air-conditioners on overnight, unmonitored.
* Heaters should at all times be utilised in the presence of adults or a responsible person.
* Placement of the heater should be centralised within the room and away from any combustibles.
* Switch off heaters before sleeping. Blankets can fall on it and catch fire.
* Do not dry clothes using a heater. The practice is a potential fire hazard.
* Keep the room or house ventilated when using paraffin heaters, as they emit toxic fumes.
* Refill the paraffin heater prior to use.
* Use the approved refilling equipment.
* Any electrical repairs should be done by a qualified electrician.
* Gas cylinders should be refilled at the registered gas dealers.
* Avoid any gas leakage. Check the O-ring on the valve.
* Avoid using other pipes, like hose pipes. Always use approved gas pipes.
Safe use of brazier (umbawala):
Many people still use braziers as a source of heat, especially in areas without electricity.
The dangers relating to brazier use include the emission of toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide — which are silent killers.
“People in the room where the brazier is placed, don’t smell any gas, they become unconscious and die,” said Ntladi.
“The gas particles attach themselves to the circulatory system, preventing oxygen from being circulated.”
* Keep the room or house adequately ventilated.
* Take the brazier outside when preparing to sleep.
* Never leave the brazier on, always extinguish the coals with water when not in use.
What to do in-case of fire:
* Call Emergency Services on toll free numbers 10177 or 112.
* Call Ekurhuleni Emergency Services on 011 458 0911
* Electrical heaters: switch off the power supply.
* Paraffin heaters: use sand or dry chemical powder fire extinguisher.
* Gas heaters: turn off the valve and use a damp cloth to put out the flames.
