Avoiding and combating fire outbreaks

Fire outbreaks can be extremely devastating, particularly when assistance from the fire service does not arrive promptly.

It is often said that prevention is better and less costly than cure. To minimise the risk of a fire outbreak in your home, office, or immediate surroundings, kindly adhere to the following precautions:

Switch off all electrical appliances when they are not in use, at the close of the day’s work (for offices), before leaving the house (for homes), and during power outages.

Do not store highly flammable liquids or materials near open flames.

Conduct routine checks on electrical points to detect and fix faults early (at home, in the office, and in your vehicle). It is dangerous to ignore or manage an electrical fault, no matter how minor it appears.

Avoid cooking when extremely tired and alone at home, as you are likely to fall asleep, potentially leading to a fire outbreak.

If you smoke, refrain from doing so near highly flammable substances or petrol stations.

Never refill your power generator with fuel while it is still running; switch it off first before refuelling.

Always turn off your vehicle’s ignition before refuelling.

Do not use your mobile phone near petrol stations while fuel or gas is being dispensed. Ensure your phone is switched off.

Avoid or closely supervise open burning of dry materials, waste, or bushes, especially during the dry season.

In the event of a fire in a high-rise building, do not use the lift; instead, use the staircase or any available emergency exit.

Ensure fire extinguishers are strategically placed in your home, office, and vehicle to tackle unexpected fire outbreaks.

Save emergency fire service numbers on your phone and display them prominently in offices and homes for quick access during fire incidents.

If a fire breaks out in your neighbour’s house, assist in putting it out to prevent it from spreading. Fire safety requires collective effort.

Every staff member, family member, and domestic worker should be educated on fire prevention and trained on how to respond in case of an outbreak.

Do not vandalise pipeline installations!

By following these safety measures, you can reduce the risk of fire outbreaks and safeguard lives and property.

By Sharoneez Emephia