DEMS gives residents fire safety tips following Sunnyridge tragedy

Residents are requested to avoid fires in light of the recent house fire in Sunnyridge.

Residents should exercise caution when using heating appliances to stay warm, according to William Ntladi, the spokesperson for Ekurhuleni Fire Department, as they continue to be the main cause of house fires.

Ntladi said that at this time of year, fractural fires caused by space heaters or braziers, or any heating objects are rather common. Shackfires are also of high concern at this time of the year.

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To stop more shacks from catching fire, he said that shacks needed to be spaced three meters apart.

“Safety along illegal electrical connections needs to be emphasised,” said Ntladi.

“Gas stoves must be purchased from a licensed vendor since a gas cylinder that has been overcharged may explode. Use of the gas stove necessitates a flat surface,” said Ntladi.

DEMS provided the following safety tips to prevent fires:

• Keep anything that can burn at least a metre away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space heater.

• Have a metre child-free zone around home fires and space heaters.

• Never use your oven to heat your home.

• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year before usage by a qualified professional.

• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop embers from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.

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He also said during winter, when temperatures can drop dramatically, it is everyone`s responsibility to be vigilant in the prevention of destructive fires while keeping warm.

Save these emergency contact numbers for assistance in case of need:

• Fire and rescue services/ life-threatening emergencies: 011 458 0911.

• National toll-free number: 10177.

• From a cellphone: 112.