Smart Security Services issues fire-safety alert after Glen Marais house fires
Following three house fires in one week, SSS says early detection and prevention are crucial and encourages residents to adopt simple steps to protect their families and property.
Smart Security Services (SSS) urges residents to prioritise fire safety in their homes, highlighting that a fire can become deadly in as little as two minutes.
Rory Smart of the SSS said recent incidents in Kempton Park had served as reminders of the importance of fire prevention.
He emphasised that taking proactive steps could significantly reduce the risk of fire and improve chances of a safe escape.
ALSO READ: Kempton Park house fire claims elderly woman’s life
On November 5, the SSS responded to two house fires in Glen Marais, bringing the total to three fires attended to in just one week.
In the second incident, the team prevented the fire from spreading beyond the garage, thanks to early notification.
“Having witnessed a client’s house burn down in 2012, we purchased a fire truck that same year.
“Over the years, the company has saved a number of homes when notified early of a developing fire,” Smart said.
Common causes of house fires
• Battery packs and inverters: Lithium-ion devices can ignite from overcharging, physical damage, defects, or exposure to high temperatures. Fires often occur when devices are charged with the wrong charger or are already damaged;
• Cooking equipment: Stoves and heaters left on after power outages can reignite unexpectedly;
• Gas bottles: Faulty gas bottles, such as in the devastating 2012 fire in Eersterust, Pretoria, can trigger explosions.
ALSO READ: Firefighters contain house fire sparked by solar inverter
“These incidents are on the rise and often leave families with only moments to escape,” Smart said.
“Fire prevention, detection and suppression principles used in industry can be adapted for the home environment. We want to equip our community with the knowledge and tools to keep their families and properties safe.”
Key fire prevention tips
• Install and maintain smoke alarms: Place alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly, replace the batteries annually, and replace the units every 10 years;
• Check appliances before leaving home: Ensure all appliances, especially in children’s rooms, are switched off;
• Cook with care: Never leave cooking unattended and keep flammable items at least 1m from stoves;
• Use heaters safely: Keep portable heaters at least 1m from combustible items and switch them off when leaving the room or going to sleep;
• Inspect electrical cords: Check for fraying or damage and avoid overloading sockets;
• Practice candle safety: Place candles in sturdy holders, away from flammable items, and never leave them unattended. Flameless LED candles are recommended;
• Store flammables correctly: Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach, and store gas cylinders and paraffin safely.
What to do if a fire occurs
• Get out, stay out, call for help: Immediately exit and do not re-enter for belongings or pets;
• Crawl low in smoke: Smoke and toxic gases rise, so cover your mouth and nose with a cloth if possible;
• Stop, drop, and roll: If clothing catches fire, stop, drop to the ground, cover your face, and roll until flames are extinguished;
• Use the right extinguisher: Keep a working fire extinguisher and know how to use it. For grease or oil fires, use a metal lid, cookie sheet, or salt/baking soda; never water;
• Have an escape plan: Practice escape plans twice a year, know two exits from every room, and designate an outdoor meeting spot;
• Teach children proper responses: Instruct children never to hide under beds or in cupboards and to immediately alert an adult if they accidentally cause a fire.
