Stay safe this winter with these tips for heating devices

As we welcome the cold winter, the South Africa Police Service (SAPS) would like to encourage the public to prioritise their safety.

The police service has shared the following tips to keep you safe and prevent your heating devices from becoming a safety hazard:

• When setting up a heater, remember to place it on the floor and keep it away from any flammable or combustible materials.
• The heater 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.
• Hot-water bottles – to avoid burning yourself and the bottle leaking only buy a certified brand from a trusted shopping outlet. It is also important 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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