Keep your family fire safe this winter
Every year from June to the end of August, more house fires are reported than during any other period in the year.
A fire in the home is a very scary thought. In winter the threat of this becomes more real as heaters are switched on, the air becomes drier and more static, power sockets are overloaded and people light indoor fires.
Every year from June to the end of August, more house fires are reported than during any other period in the year.
Educating children, domestic workers and others about what to do in the event of a fire is crucial, says Mike Francisco, a security spokesperson for the Muldersdrift Communication Action Group (MCAG).
“An emergency number for the Fire Department should be placed near the home phone or be on speed dial on a mobile phone. Children also should know the best escape routes in the home and this should be practiced just as they would practice a fire drill at school. They should be taught the importance of not overloading plug sockets and how to use a fire extinguisher, if they are of a suitable age,” he says.
The informal settlements and large residential plots in Muldersdrift as well as the thatched homes and hotels place the properties in the area at a higher risk of fire. There is also a lot of open veld that becomes very dry in winter and a single spark can escalate into a major fire in seconds.
Francisco believes that residents should consider installing a carbon monoxide fire detector in their homes. Having a smoke detector is a safe, effective, and unobtrusive way of protecting a home or business against the dangers of fire. It acts as an early warning and detection service.
The detector will not pick up a naked flame but smoke or a smouldering fire.
“It’s also worth getting a small domestic fire extinguisher. They are very cost-effective and ideal for use in an emergency,” he adds.
For tips to stay safe this winter season make sure to log onto the website tomorrow.
