SAPS safety tips amid extremely cold weather

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is urging the public to adopt and implement its Safety Tips around fire safety, especially during extremely cold weather.

Here are Seven safety tips, courtesy of SAPS:

1. SAPS suggests: Never make fires inside your house or shanty

You can fall asleep while the “dombolo barrels” are still burning and remember to never smoke in bed or leave candles burning at night.

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2.Never leave your kitchen unattended whilst cooking

It only takes a few seconds for a fire to break out. If you need to leave the kitchen for any reason whatsoever, make sure to either ask someone to watch the food for you or turn everything off altogether until you’re back.

3. Inspect your heating sources

House fires may be triggered if your home heating sources are not working properly or when you fall asleep while heaters is still on. Be extra careful when using electric blankets.

4. Store any flammable products correctly

Household cleaners and items such as hair spray or shaving cream may be very hazardous if exposed to a strong source of heat. Always store these safely in a cool area away from any heaters.

ALSO READ: STRICT By-laws prohibiting fires in public spaces

5. Maintain your wires

Do not overload plugs with extra heating electrical appliances. Before you plug something into a socket, try to be courteous in ensuring that the wire hasn’t been torn or chewed up (in case you have any pets running around). Damaged wires can be a detrimental fire hazard and need replacing as soon as possible. Also, remember that wires do get hot when in use, so be sure to check your wire placement and avoid passing them under a carpet or anything that could potentially catch fire.

6. Be cautious with open flames

Be extra careful around your fireplaces always extinguish fires before you go to bed. If you have small children or pets, keep these open flames out of their reach as much as possible.

7. Keep a fire extinguisher or blanket around at all times!

Fire extinguishers and blankets will be your best defence in the event of a fire breaking out. Every family member should know how to use a fire extinguisher, so in case something in your home does catch fire, it can be put out as fast as possible. Fire blankets are also very useful for putting out small fires but rather call the fire brigade when you see the fire is becoming larger, fiercer and life threatening.

ALSO READ: Shack fire season: Joburg Launches Winter Safety Campaign

“Let us keep warm and be safe during the winter season.”

SAPS

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