The City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) would like to encourage residents to exercise great caution this winter, particularly when handling heating devices.
As the city moves into another cold winter, temperatures are expected to drop below 20°C over the coming week.
In this regard, EMS 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 heater directly into an outlet, 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, dont use aerosol 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 in good condition and service regularly. Always replace worn-out or defective tubing and regulators.
- Trust your nose, if you suspect that you can smell a gas leak, chances are it is. Cut off the gas at the cylinder first and get it checked.
Braziers.
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- There are still a number of people who use braziers (imbawula) 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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