Since the beginning of this year, the George Fire and Rescue Service has dealt with a total of 74 structural fire incidents, 52 of which involved informal structures, with 13 involving houses.
Residents are therefore urged to take precautions to prevent fires, and to ensure that the Fire Service is called immediately should a fire break out.
Most fires are caused by carelessness. Cigarettes, matches, lighters, candles, electrical faults, heating appliances, cooking appliances and equipment such as electric blankets can all be lethal.
The department is continuously exploring new and innovative ways of responding to and extinguishing fires in as rapid manner as possible to prevent damage to property and loss of life.
Remember, always call for the George Fire and Rescue Services via 044 805 5111 before you make any attempt to fight a fire yourself.
A FEW SAFETY TIPS
- Using electricity safely
- Do not overload your electrical circuits, in other words, do not use more than four plugs simultaneously on one extension.
- Service your electrical components regularly and replace faulty ones.
- Using paraffin safely
- Always handle paraffin with extreme care, as it is poisonous and can burn your skin even if unlit.
- Paraffin can cause severe burns, and paraffin stoves that are knocked over or explode are a major cause of injuries and fires in informal settlements.
- Never leave a paraffin appliance unattended.
- Make sure paraffin appliances are on a flat, firm surface.
- Do not put a cloth under a paraffin appliance. A child or pet could pull the trailing end and knock over the appliance. The cloth will burn easily, further fuelling the fire.
- Always have a bucket of sand nearby when using a paraffin appliance. Water will not extinguish a paraffin fire and can make matters worse by spreading the flames. Paraffin fires can only be extinguished using sand or a fire extinguisher.
- Do not use a paraffin stove near a window with a curtain.
- Safety around an open flame
- Cut candles in half to prevent them falling over and use a candle holder.
- Do not go to sleep with candles still burning.
- Other precautions
- Teach children about the dangers of fire.
- Keep a bucket handy to fill with water so that you can extinguish flames easily.
- Keep a bucket of sand to put out paraffin fires.
- Keep a well-maintained fire extinguisher in your house, and know how to use it.
- If you have a garden hose, keep it rolled up and ready in case of fire.
- Have an escape plan, and make sure that the whole family knows the plan.
- Do not park in the way of a fire hydrant (and remind your neighbours and visitors to do the same).
