As the temperatures drop, winter weather can bring about a whole new set of fire hazards.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality suggests the following safety steps to keep safe:
1. Heating, cooking, and using candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months.
2. Make it a routine to check that all flames are extinguished before you go to bed or leave a room.
3. The primary cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended stovetops and ovens. Stoves and ovens should be free from grease build-up.
4. Ensure good housekeeping and firebreaks around your dwelling to prevent fires. Keep the area around your home clear of flammable materials.
5. Always extinguish fires and safely dispose of cigarettes, hot ash, and coal (once cooled).
6. Check that windows open easily and always have an escape plan so you know what to do in a fire. If caught in a smoke-filled room, get as low as possible to the ground. You can also cover your mouth and nose with a moist cloth to reduce smoke inhalation. Sound the fire alarm if you have one, call emergency services and exit your home.
7. Do not light fires inside buildings using products that have harmful chemicals, which may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation.
8. Always work in an open, clear, and well-ventilated area when working with electric tools and equipment.
9. Ensure that your electrical appliances are correctly wired. Do not overload sockets. Use multi-plugs with surge protection devices fitted on them. Ensure all electrical cords and plugs are in good condition without frays. Do not use water to put out electrical or oil fires.
10. Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
11. It is strongly recommended that manual smoke detectors are installed in your home for early fire detection.
12. It is important that you have a gas compliance certificate if having any gas installations.
13. It is important that a minimum of a 4,5kg dry chemical powder fire extinguisher is available at home and in a vehicle to deal with incipient fires. Knowing how to use them is important.
RNM contact numbers are 039 682 5555 | 039 688 2118 | 039 688 2009 | 072 846 7349.
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