EMS urges fire safety as cold front grips Gauteng
A cold front expected to bring freezing temperatures and possible rain to parts of Gauteng has prompted emergency services to warn residents about the fire risks associated with heating devices.
Residents are being urged to take extra precautions as a cold front, accompanied by possible rainfall, moves across the city from today through the weekend.
The City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) warned that colder temperatures could increase the risk of fire incidents as households make greater use of heating devices.
EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi urged residents to exercise caution when using heaters, braziers (imbaulas), paraffin stoves and candles.
“With the extremely cold temperatures expected across the City of Johannesburg, we urge residents to exercise caution when using heating devices such as heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves and candles. These should never be left unattended while in use, as this can increase the risk of fire incidents in homes,” he said.
Mulaudzi reminded residents to use heating equipment safely and responsibly throughout the cold spell to prevent avoidable incidents.
The EMS has encouraged residents to report life-threatening emergencies to its Command and Control Centre on 011 375 5911.
Authorities have also urged communities to monitor weather updates and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families and their homes during the cold front.
