Keep safe this winter
Tshwane emergency services shared vital winter safety tips.
As the winter season settles in, Tshwane emergency services warns residents of strong winds from May to August.
“This makes structure, veld and rubbish fires a serious concern. Veld fires spread rapidly, especially in windy conditions,” said spokesperson Johan Pieterse.
Residents, especially those who live in thatched houses or have thatched lapas close to open fields, should clean up the areas around their property.
“People living on farms and smallholdings are also warned to take extra care when making firebreaks and doing veld pre-burning on windy days.”
Those who have large, open areas covered with grass and rubbish should clean the areas regularly to prevent fires from starting and spreading to other properties.
Pieterse offered some safety tips for residents:
When any roadway or freeway is engulfed by smoke:
– Reduce speed and switch on hazard lights to warn the oncoming traffic
– Close the car windows and air inlets to prevent smoke inhalation
Paraffin safety tips:
– Keep paraffin out of sight and reach of young children
– It is advisable to store paraffin in its own special bottle and avoid using a cold drink bottle or milk container
– Always use a funnel, not a cup, to pour paraffin and keep the funnel and the paraffin locked away after use
– If the paraffin spills on clothing, remove the clothing to avoid breathing in paraffin fumes as one drop of paraffin in the lungs can cause serious damage
– Let fresh air into the room when you are using a paraffin appliance as fresh air clears the bad fumes
– Paraffin should be clear in colour and uncontaminated with any other fuel such as petrol or diesel
– It is good investment to purchase the safest stoves and heaters available
If a child swallows paraffin:
– Take the child to a clinic or hospital immediately
– Do not give the child anything to eat or drink such as medicine, home remedies, food or milk
– Do not make the child vomit
Tips on lighting candles and keeping your family safe
– If a child lights a candle, there should always been an adult presents who will stay in the room
– Blow out all candles before going to sleep or leaving the room
– Keep candles at least 3ft away from anything that can burn
– Always use stable candleholders. If possible, use a hurricane glass to protect the open flame
– Place candles where they will not be knocked down or blown over and out of reach of pets and young children
– In the hands of a child, matches and lighters can be deadly. Store candles, matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children and keep them in a locked cabinet.
– Do not allow children to keep or use candles or incense in their rooms.
– To eliminate the risk of an open flame, use battery-powered candles whenever possible, especially when you combine candles with greenery or other decorations
Also read:
Blankets to keep aged warm in winter
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