Tshwane Emergency Services cautions residents to stay safe

The City of Tshwane’s Emergency Services Department is urging all residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe while keeping warm this winter. With the recent drop in temperatures and cold, windy conditions across parts of the country, including Tshwane, residents may be tempted to resort to unsafe measures to stay warm.

Safety Precautions for Residents and Farmers

To ensure the safety and well-being of residents and their animals, the Emergency Services Department recommends the following precautionary measures:

• Fire Hazards: In case of fire danger to dwellings, vegetation, or veld fires, dial the toll-free emergency number 107 immediately.
• Charcoal Safety: Avoid using burning charcoal indoors when sleeping as it produces large amounts of carbon monoxide.
• Fuel Usage: Use only fuels that are designed for your heating unit to avoid dangerous accidents.
• Controlled Burning: No unapproved controlled burning should be carried out during this period.
• Candle Safety: Never leave children unattended near burning candles or fires and ensure all candles are placed in safe candleholders.
• Electrical Safety: Avoid illegal electricity connections and do not overload electrical plugs.
• Coal Fire Safety: Never leave an imbawula or coal fire burning overnight without supervision.
• Paraffin Fires: Extinguish paraffin fires with sand or a fire extinguisher, not with water.

Ongoing Monitoring and Updates

The City of Tshwane’s Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor updates from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and issue further notices as necessary.

Reporting Emergencies

To report any fire incidents, please call 107 toll-free or alternatively call 012 310 6300 or 6400.

THINK SAFE – ACT SAFE – BE SAFE

Issued by the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department