To help avoid congestion on the already constrained healthcare system, the City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) would like to encourage communities to exercise caution this winter, particularly with handling of heating devices.
The fourth cold front of the winter season is currently in play throughout the Johannesburg area with the South Africa Weather Service issuing warnings of severe frost.
Read more: Brace yourself as fourth cold front hits Joburg this winter
Temperatures are expected to continue to dip below 0°C well into the weekend.
In this regard, EMS has shared the following safety tips for heating devices:
Electric heaters
- When using an electric heater, place the heater on a flat surface away from anything flammable. Plug the heater directly into an outlet and avoid using an extension cord. Never leave a heater unattended and turn it off before going to bed.
- Choose an electric heater that has an automatic safety switch that turns the heater off if it is tipped over.
Gas heater
- When operating your gas heater, don’t use aerosols or solvents in close proximity to the heater as they are highly flammable. Only move the gas heater when it is off, moving it while it is on could cause a gas leak which may result in an explosion. Always ensure that the room in use is well ventilated.
- Make sure all parts of the gas heater are in good condition and serviced regularly. Always replace worn-out or defective tubing and regulators.
- Trust your nose, if you suspect that you can smell leaking gas, chances are it is. Shut off the gas at the cylinder first and get it checked.
Braziers
- There are still a number of people who use braziers (imbowula) or coal stoves to keep warm in winter which can result in a killer gas that is not easily detected, such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide.
- Take the brazier outside when preparing to sleep. Never leave the brazier burning, always extinguish the coals with water when it is not in use.
In case of a fire, dial 011 375 5911 or 112
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