Residents are ready for winter season

Kya Sand Informal Settlement businesses are collaborating with the United Dream Rivers Service NPC (UDRS), to keep the residents warm and also safe during this winter season.

The area is known for its high number of fire incidents, especially during the winter season. UDRS has once again demonstrated its commitment to community upliftment with a heartwarming event on June 15.

In a significant act of generosity, Bos Timber sponsored wood to help the residents keep warm during the biting winter period. The event was not only about providing this resource but also about educating the community on crucial safety measures.

Emergency Management Services (EMS) played a pivotal role by offering training and coaching on responsible fire handling in informal settlements. They also provided essential emergency contact details, empowering the community with the knowledge to respond effectively in times of crisis.

The spokesperson for the Joburg EMS Robert Mulaudzi said, “It’s important for us to empower residents with the skills to deal with emergencies as and when they occur in their areas.”

He added through their Public Education Unit, they would intensify public education efforts in all seven regions of Joburg, targeting the most vulnerable communities, the informal settlements.

The initiative was met with enthusiasm and gratitude from the community.
UDRS spokesperson Donald Mtimkulu said the success of the event was a shining example of how corporate social responsibility and community engagement could create a tangible impact.

“It’s important to support local NGOs to benefit the surrounding communities. There are many initiatives ahead, especially in winter, and in unfortunate cases of fire, we will assist in rebuilding homes that are affected by shack fires and provide them with their needs of shelter, clothes water and food. We are an NPC that cares for underprivileged communities.
“Such collaborations are vital in extending our reach and enhancing our efforts to serve communities. By supporting UDRS, these companies fulfil their commitment to caring for the impoverished neighbourhood they operate in and around.”

EMS shared the following tips to residents:

Candles

• Keep burning candles out of reach of children and pets
• A child should not be left unattended in a room with a candle
• Store candles, matches and lighters away from the reach of children
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, bedding, etc
• Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room
• Candles should not be used to light stoves
• Extinguish the flame when you go to sleep or when you leave the house.

Electricity

• Sparks from electric wires and plugs can start a fire
• Overloaded plugs can burn out easily
• Worn and exposed electrical wires are dangerous. Replace worn or frayed electric cords immediately
• Water and electricity do not mix. Keep all electric wires and plugs away from water and steam
• Teach children about the dangers of electricity.

Paraffin

• If you use paraffin lamps, make sure the flame is protected
• Put your paraffin stove on a flat surface where it can’t fall or get knocked over
• A big pot on a small stove can easily fall over and start a fire
• Use safe containers to store paraffin eg. safety cap bottles.

Mulaudzi that fire is fast and that in less than 30 seconds a small flame could quickly spread and become a threat to people’s lives and their property.

“Fires occur throughout the year, which is why we need to be extra cautious at all times when starting a fire for braaiing, lighting a candle, paraffin lamp or any gas appliance such as a stove.”

Residents are urged to visit the Be Safe Centres which are spread all over the seven regions.

For more information on UDRS’s initiatives or to get involved, please visit the website at www.udrs.co.za.

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