Municipality urges residents to help prevent heating-related fires this winter
According to City spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, in 2020 alone, the City responded to more than 6000 fire incidents during the winter season.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/49/2021/06/pexels-engin-akyurt-1435511.jpg)
THE eThekwini Municipality has encouraged residents to be extra cautious this winter to avoid heating-related fires.
According to City spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, eThekwini tops the list of municipalities that bear the brunt of runaway fires that are mainly attributed to negligence.
In 2020 alone, the City responded to more than 6000 fire incidents during the winter season, said Mayisela.
ALSO READ: Baby and child car seat safety tips for winter
“Households continue to account for a substantial number of these cases. Fire outbreaks do not only result in damage to property, but they are often fatal. Illegal electricity connections and unattended fires are usual causes. For us to turn the tide, members of the public need to play their part. We urge residents to be cautious during this time, more especially since the country is contending with load-shedding, “he said.
He added it is important to ensure that every fire is always attended to.
Safety tips might help to prevent fires:
- Every fire must be extinguished properly with water.
- No fire must burn throughout the night unattended.
- Smokers must refrain from throwing cigarette butts through windows.
- Ensure all cigarette butts are extinguished properly before disposal.
- Ensure children don’t have access to objects that may start fires.
In case of an emergency, residents can contact 031 361 0000.
Do you want to receive news alerts via Telegram? Send us a message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail Telegram number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple.