Fire safety tips for winter
Netcare 911 warned about the dangers of open flames and electric heaters this winter.
Chris Botha, Netcare 911’s spokesperson, has issued a warning regarding the dangers of open flames and electric heaters this winter.
Botha said, “Well, this is the start of the colder season and it is only going to become worse, so take care of yourself, your family and your property. During this season it is very common to see people using open flame devices or electric heaters to keep warm or to supply light.”
Botha said the most common items that are used are Primus stoves and candles, especially in areas that have no electricity. “However, gas and electric heaters used to keep warm during the icy cold period are just as dangerous. Let us look at the open flames first. Not only do they have a danger of falling over and setting the place alight while you are sleeping, but they are also a problem as the burning flames give off carbon monoxide that could be fatal if there is no ventilation in the room”.
However, Botha said, any heater, whether open flame or electric, if placed too close to any combustible material could radiate heat to such an extent that the materials could start burning. If this happens while everybody is sleeping, you stand not only the chance of sustaining severe burns, but also of being overcome by the toxic fumes in the smoke, and dying.
Botha warned, “Please take care and make sure that the area in which you are using open flames is well ventilated and that the flames are extinguished before you go to sleep. When using candles, make sure that they are in a candle-holder that cannot fall over, and place them well away from any combustible materials.”
He also warned that heaters should be placed far away from any material that could catch fire. Don’t hang clothes over them to dry and rather switch them off before you go to sleep.
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