The winter season is almost upon us, and it is as important as ever to take extra precautions as we head into fire season. Many lives and properties are lost due to fires caused accidentally while trying to counteract the extreme freezing temperatures. Understanding how to protect yourself, your loved ones and properties during the cold winter season will make a difference in staying safe and alive.
Although the knowledge and understanding of fire chemistry will not completely eliminate risks of fire development as others are deliberately caused, they will help to reduce the risks of life and property lost inclusive of developing severe lung infections for those exposed to smoke inhalation which will ultimately require hospitalization. It is therefore a good precautionary measure to engage in fire safety practices.
“In the absence of electricity, many people use alternative means of heating, lighting and cooking. All these spell fire danger to both life and property”.
Golden rule:
During winter, there is definitely an increase in the usage of heaters. An alternative safe method to keep warm is wearing warm clothes and wrapping yourself with a warm blanket.
Heaters:
- Never leave the heaters unmonitored. This includes even when you are sleeping.
- Never leave children alone without a responsible adult around heaters.
- Place heaters at least a meter away from combustibles. (Beddings, curtains, tablecloths, furniture, etc…)
- When using Gas heaters or Fireplaces, ensure adequate ventilation.
- Always switch off the heaters, Fireplaces and air conditioners while leaving the room. (Home or office).
Braziers:
- Ensure that coals are burning adequately without smoke emission before placing in the house.
- Ensure that there is adequate ventilation such that carbon monoxide, Hydrogen cyanide and other toxic gases don’t harm anybody.
- Take the brazier outside while going to bed.
In case of an emergency, call the City`s Life-Threatening Emergency Call Centre on (011) 458 0911; or 10177; or 112 numbers who will then dispatch the nearest rescue team.
