Open boxes turn into fire hazards

Open electrical boxes are fast becoming a danger in the city.

May 28, 2015

Riana Joubert 1 minute read

Open electrical boxes in Jorrisen Street are filled with papers and other materials that can easily be ignited.

POLOKWANE – Open electrical boxes are fast becoming a danger in the city.

In Jorissen and Devenish streets, several boxes are seen containing loose papers and pamplets, turning the boxes into fire hazards.

According to Polokwane municipal spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene, this is cause for concern.

“Over time, copper conductors shrink and make loose connections. These loose connections then cause sparks which would ignite the papers and lead to a fire.” She said that the vandalism of electrical boxes and the placement of materials like paper can lead to death by a mere 0.003 Amps.

The capacity of these boxes runs at more than 300 amps.

Open electrical boxes can be reported by phoning (015) 290 2490 or (015) 290 2459.

Those found vandalising or abusing municipal property can be fined up to the amount of R1 200, according to Chuene.