Be vigilant during winter nights

As the SA Weather Services has predicted a cold front to hit Gauteng from today, government has called on communities to be vigilant of shack fires.

A family was engulfed in a shack fire in Vlakfontein, Lenasia, on Tuesday night. Three children and a woman were killed in the blaze.

Acting Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) CEO, Phumla Williams, said on Wednesday government sends it deepest condolences to the family and friends of the five people.

“This is an unfortunate incident that should not have happened. As we enter into the winter season, government calls on all citizens to take precautionary measures when lighting fires,” said Williams.

People living in informal settlements are vulnerable to shack fires that are in most cases caused by paraffin stoves, heaters, unattended candles and gas appliances, amongst others, as they try to keep warm.

“People need to ensure that they adhere to precautionary measures to avoid devastating fire incidents.

“During winter, there are numerous and very common incidents of heating in shack dwellings with sources such as open fires and electrical heaters too close to combustible materials. Boxes of matches and cigarette lighters should be stored safely, away from children,” she said.

Government further called on all parents and guardians to ensure compliance to safety regulations and protect their children from such fire accidents.

“Parents are urged to be aware of the whereabouts of their children at all times. Children should not be left unattended or locked in a house with no proper ventilation and enough fresh air,” William said.

She said during Child Protection Week, communities should play their part and “protect our children, the future leaders of our country, from fires and similar dangerous situations that may affect them”.

In the event of a fire outbreak or emergency members of the public can call the National Emergency Response on 10111. – SAnews.gov.za