Fires in open areas pose a threat to you and the environment, says WOF
BONUS spoke to Matema Gwangwa, Department of Environmental Affairs' Working on Fire (WoF) Spokesperson, about the dangers of uncontrolled fires and people making fires in their homes.
POLOKWANE – With the colder months creeping up on us, many people resort to making fires or using other means to stay warm.
This, unfortunately, isn’t always the safest method as making fires pose a safety hazard as they can easily burn out of control, leading to a loss of life and property as well as damage to the environment.
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“Even though the flames cause destruction in its wake, it isn’t the only thing about a fire that poses a danger to people, animals and the environment as the smoke can do just as much damage,” Gwangwa explained.
“It can greatly impact your health and life if inhaled, leading to diseases such as lung infections or even death. Aside from that it also causes air pollution which is detrimental to the environment.”
Gwangwa explained there are certain safety guidelines people who plan to make fires can follow in order to ensure their own as well as others’ safety.
“Firstly, the fire danger index should be consulted and the weather should also be taken into consideration to ensure there are no winds which can create the potential for the fire to be blown out of control.
Refrain from making fires in open areas and rather use a fireplace or dig a hole and make the fire inside. Always ensure there is water or sand nearby to immediately put out the fire should it get out of control.
“Once the fire is no longer needed, make sure it is properly doused as a fire might seem dead but often times it is still smouldering causing the potential of a runaway fire.”
Gwangwa added adults should never request a minor to make a fire without adult supervision; there should always be an adult present when minors are near a fire until the fire is completely doused.
Fires should also never be left unattended, Gwangwa advised.
“Runaway fires often occur because people do not handle fire with care as they assume nothing bad will happen to them. Any fire has the potential to cause great damage and whenever there is a fire burning people should be on high alert of the possibility that it can get out of control. When handled correctly and following all the safety guidelines when it comes to fire, however, will ensure everyone’s safety.”
