Winter is almost here

With winter just around the corner, the Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) has issued some tips on how to keep warm and stay safe.

They have noted that trying to keep warm in winter can result in risks such as fires.

EMS provided the following safety tips for when using a candle:

• Keep candles away from children.

• A child should not be left unattended in a room with a burning candle.

• Store candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

• Avoid carrying a lit candle.

• A candle should not be used in a confined space.

• Candles should not be used to light stoves.

• Extinguish the flame when you go to sleep or when you leave the house.

The following tips were supplied for gas users:

•Check your pipes, gas bottle and appliances regularly. Make sure they are not leaking, rusted or damaged.

• If you smell gas, turn the gas off at the bottle. Use water to check for leaks in the pipe. Never test for leaks with an open flame – the gas could explode.

• Keep the gas bottle at least 30cm away from the appliance.

• Always light the match first before turning on the gas.

• Turn the gas off if there is a leak or fire.

For paraffin users:

• If you use paraffin lamps, make sure the flame is protected.

• Put your paraffin stove on a flat surface where it can’t fall or get knocked over.

• A big pot on a small stove can easily fall over and start a fire.

• Use safe containers to store paraffin, e.g. safety cap bottles.

Before you go to bed or out, make sure to:

• Never go to bed or out if a candle or paraffin lamp is still burning.

• Switch off heaters and stoves at the plug before going to bed or out.

• Always put out cigarettes carefully.