Shack fire tragedy claims a life: EMS warns of fire hazards
After a tragic shack fire where a man died, EMS provided some tips to help prevent disastrous fires.
Police and Emergency Management Services (EMS) warn about fire hazards during the winter.
According to West Rand District Police spokesperson Soloman Sibiya, police are investigating a case where a 49-year-old man died in a shack fire in Kagiso.
He added that when police arrived on the scene, they found a body in a shack burnt beyond recognition, and during a preliminary investigation police and emergency services found a charcoal stove, as they suspect this was the cause of the fire.
This led to the Krugersdorp News wanting to find out how to prevent tragedies like this.
According to West Rand District Emergency Services station officer Craig Marsden, there are a few safety tips to follow to prevent fire in your homes.
The first thing Marsden said is to not leave pots unattended on a stove. He added that you should ensure your stoves and candles should be well balanced, as they can easily fall over, especially when lit.
Secondly, you should not fall asleep or leave your home while candles, heaters, braziers, or paraffin stoves are lit or on.
Thirdly, children also play a role in preventing disasters. He said that you should educate your children about the dangers of fire and what they should do if they find themselves in dangerous situations.
He concluded you should not leave your children alone in the house or shack while these items are on or alight, as it might endanger them.
