The Wonderboom SAPS Spokesperson Mandla Zwane gave out tips to ensure that residents in Pretoria are safe while trying to keep warm during this winter. Zwane gave this hint after the police departments had received reports of some few houses which burned of gas fire during winter seasons.
“Previously we had reported incidents of many houses catching fire. One incident was when were one house went on fire because the gas tank had exploded. The gas explosion the owner of the house dead as well”, said Zwane.
Zwane stressed that residents must adhere to the followingprecautionary measures to avoid fire outbreaks:
Heater safety
• Ensure that your heater is in good working order and that cords and other components are not damaged. If you use a gas heater, inspect it to ensure there are no leaks. If valves, pipes or other components of the heater are damaged, either replace the parts that can be replaced or buy a new heater.
• Ensure proper ventilation when using gas heaters or other fuel burning appliances. Outdoor heaters should not be used indoors. Flammable liquids meant for other purposes should not be used to start a fire.
• Never leave a heater unattended while on.
In terms of a Fireplace residence should adhere to the following.
• Maintain it – have the chimney inspected and cleaned and try make the fire small enough to be able to control. Keep flammable items away and extinguish when going out the room.
• Ensure there is proper ventilation in the room and put an appropriate screen in front of the fireplace as a safeguard as well as to prevent embers from jumping out.
Zwane further urged community members to always know their nearest emergency services departments in Pretoria around their locations.
