Tshwane residents urged to take extra care as cold, windy weather raises fire risks
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department has urged residents to exercise caution when using heaters and other alternative heating methods as cold and windy conditions increase the risk of fires across the city.
Residents across Tshwane have been warned to take extra precautions this week as colder weather settles over the city, with dry vegetation and strong winds creating conditions that can cause fires to spread rapidly.
Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Nana Radebe-Kgiba said residents should prioritise safety when trying to keep warm, particularly when using fuel-burning heating devices indoors.
“Residents must ensure that heating appliances are used safely and that areas are properly ventilated,” said Radebe-Kgiba.
She warned against using imbawulas, braziers or other fuel-burning devices inside enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.
“These devices can produce dangerous gases and reduce oxygen levels, posing a serious risk to occupants,” she said.
Radebe-Kgiba said residents using heaters indoors are also urged to keep them away from curtains, bedding, clothing, furniture and other combustible materials.
She added that parents and caregivers should ensure children are kept away from heaters, candles, and other sources of heat, and that all possible causes of fire are never left unattended.
Radebe-Kgiba also warned that the combination of cold, dry winter conditions and strong winds could cause grass fires to spread quickly, potentially threatening homes, businesses, vehicles, and other property.
She urged residents to avoid starting fires in open areas and to refrain from burning rubbish or garden waste during windy conditions, as well as not to throw burning cigarette butts onto dry grass.
“Even a small fire can spread rapidly when there is dry vegetation and strong wind,” said Radebe-Kgiba.
The spokesperson advised residents to ensure heating appliances are in good working condition, avoid overloading electrical sockets when using electric heaters and properly extinguish all fires and candles before going to sleep or leaving their homes.
Residents should also ensure that doors, windows and designated escape routes are not blocked by furniture or other objects.
“If a fire starts and it is beyond your ability to control, evacuate to a safe location and alert Emergency Services immediately,” said added.
Radebe-Kgiba said taking simple precautions could help prevent fires, protect lives and minimise damage to homes and property during the cold and dry winter conditions.
Residents can report fire or rescue incidents to Tshwane Emergency Services on 107, which is toll-free, or 012 358 6300/6400.
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