Muldersdrift FPA issues winter fire safety tips
Keep in mind that criminals light fires to get residents to unlock their homes and go outside.
When they launched their own fire water truck that will be used to transport water from a source to a fire scene, the Muldersdrift Fire Protection Association (FPA) issued some tips for the winter season.
The FPA has also launched the Muldersdrift FPA Fire First Responder teams in the informal settlements. The members have been equipped with fire and first aid training to assist the communities when shack fires occur.
Tips for winter fires:
• Ensure that all your fire breaks are adequately prepared.
• Make sure that firefighting equipment is easily available 24/7, and your family/ staff are well trained.
• Have a fire plan for both your home (exit points, assembly points, emergency numbers etc) as well as for your property (ensure pets and livestock are in a place of safety).
• If in a rural area, register your property with your local FPA.
• Do not leave any fires unattended.
• Ensure candles and paraffin stoves are placed away from flammable material and have a bucket of sand within reach to use to extinguish paraffin fires.
• Have the number for the fire brigade saved in your emergency contacts.
• If there is a runaway veld fire on your property at night, advise your neighbours and FPA.
• Ensure your house is securely locked, and ask neighbours and/ or security to patrol before going outside to fight a fire.
• Keep in mind that criminals light fires to get residents to unlock their homes and go outside.
