Tshwane residents urged to stay safe this festive season

The festive season is well underway, and the Tshwane emergency services (EMS) provided crucial safety tips for residents to practice in ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday.

With the excitement of celebrations and travel, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritise safety in various aspects of life, from road safety to fire precautions.

Tshwane EMS spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni emphasised the importance of safe driving during this busy time.

“Concentrating on the road and avoiding distractions is key. We urge drivers to take regular breaks to refresh their minds and bodies, and most importantly, never drink and drive,” said Mnguni.

He said driving under the influence significantly increases the risk of accidents, leading to potentially serious injuries or fatalities.

Mnguni said residents should follow the following key driving tips:
– Concentrate on the road and avoid distracted driving.
– Follow the rules of the road and observe your environment.
– Take regular breaks to stretch and refresh.
– Avoid nighttime driving or driving in poor weather conditions.
– Check your vehicle’s roadworthiness before travelling.
– Do not smoke near flammable liquids, especially at filling stations.

In addition to safe driving practices, residents are urged to be cautious at home, particularly regarding the use of flammable items and electrical appliances.

“Store flammable items away from heat sources, and ensure that your Christmas lights are certified and in good condition,” Mnguni advised.

Here are some essential home safety tips:
– Store flammable items in safe places away from ignition sources.
– Check and maintain gas cylinders away from heat sources.
– Ensure electrical wires are not exposed or bare.
– Do not overload extension cords or outlets.
– Check decorative lighting for frayed wires or broken bulbs. Avoid overloading power outlets and placing lights near flammable materials like curtains.
– Keep your Christmas tree secure and away from fireplaces and candles.
– Unplug non-essential appliances before leaving for holiday trips.

Smoke alarms are another critical component of home safety and encourage residents to install them if possible.

He said residents should place smoke alarms on every level of their homes and near sleeping areas to ensure early detection of fire hazards.

Tips for escaping a fire:
– Have an escape plan and regularly review escape routes.
– Stay low to the ground where the air is safer during a fire.
– Regularly clean out trash to prevent accumulation.

As thunderstorms and floods can also pose significant risks during the festive season, Mnguni warns residents to stay indoors during severe weather and avoid crossing flooded areas.

“Safety should always come first; do not attempt to walk, swim or drive through floodwaters,” he cautioned.

Additional safety measures during storms:
– Stay away from metal objects.
– Unplug electronics to avoid power surges.
– Avoid sheltering under trees or tall objects.

When it comes to water activities, Mnguni advises residents to:
– Swim in approved areas or pools with lifeguards.
– Avoid swimming in rivers, as they can flood without notice.
– Ensure that children are always supervised around water.

With the traditional use of fireworks during celebrations, the EMS has reiterated the need for safety.

“Any private fireworks displays must be approved by our department. We encourage the public to leave fireworks to trained professionals and adhere to safety guidelines,” Mnguni stated.

He said the department would also like to highlight the dangers of heatwaves, especially during summer months.

“Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, especially from 10:00 to 14:00.”

He said it is crucial to keep vulnerable individuals, including children and pets, safe from extreme heat.

Key measures to combat heat stress:
– Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
– Limit outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day.
– Wear loose clothing and remain in shaded areas.
– Monitor vulnerable individuals, ensuring children or animals are not left in parked vehicles.

Residents are encouraged to save emergency contact numbers, including the 107 toll-free number for fire and the TMPD, on their phones.

“I urge everyone to stay informed and monitor warnings issued by credible sources, like the South African Weather Service, and to report any emergencies promptly.”

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