Keeping your home warm and safe this winter

As winter fast approaches, it is just as important to remain safe as it is warm.

The South African Police Service (Saps) shares tips to keep your home safe and prevent any heating devices from becoming a safety hazard.

Residents are encouraged to practice the following safety precautions:

• When setting up a heater, place it on the floor and remember to keep it away from any flammable or combustible materials.
• Heaters should not be left unmonitored. It is still far too common for people to leave their heaters on while no one is present either at home or offices through the day or overnight.
• When using a fuel-fired heater in an enclosed area, it is a good idea to leave a window or door partially open to allow for fresh air to enter. This will help prevent carbon monoxide build-up or a depletion of oxygen levels. Never take a gas-fired or kerosene heater into a confined space as the results could be deadly.
• Many people still use braziers or coal stoves to keep warm during winter. Carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide are part of other gases emitted out of the burning coals and are killer gases because they are not easily detectable. The usage of a carbon monoxide detector is therefore advisable.
• To avoid burning yourself with a hot water bottle and the bottle from leaking, only buy a certified brand from a trusted shopping outlet. You still need to make sure your hot water bottle can be closed tightly, if it can’t stop using it and invest in a new one.

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