Page 20 - Waterfall Issue 8 2021

Waterfall news

A HEALTHy

REspECT

FoR FiRE

iSTOCK: KILEMAN
D espite climate change One only has to think of incidents safely out of the house if the fire

looks like it’s out of control.
bringing us some welcome
where entire homes have been gutted,
unseasonal rain from time
to time, it is important to and consider the unfortunate lack of 3. Invest in fire extinguishers and
support from the City’s Fire Fighting
make sure that every member of the
remember that winter on the Highveld Services with only six fire engines family and your staff know where
is usually dry and inhospitable. With at their disposal, to understand to find them and how to use them.
load-shedding an ever-present reality, why it’s essential to have access to An ABC Dry Powder Extinguisher
we have to look for alternatives to a privately-run fire/rescue service, is suitable for most home fires,
keep ourselves warm, to keep the in addition to being well-informed designed to combat class A, B, and
‘lights on’ at night and to be able to and trained in firefighting oneself. C fires – those involving solids,
cook. Many of the options involve liquids, and gases. Due to their non-
flames – wood, anthracite, gas, Here are some important tips to help conductive nature, they are also
paraffin and biofuel fires, gas stoves you improve fire safety in your home: suitable for fighting electrical fires.
and ovens, pizza ovens, and candles. 1. Install smoke detectors on each 4. Having fire blankets is also a good
level of your home, starting with idea, as these are handy to use for
Generally, when we aren’t well the basement if you have one, and electrical and cooking oil fires or if
versed in managing a fire source, put together a schedule so that you anyone’s clothing catches alight.
or we’re distracted, that’s when remember to test them regularly to 5. Check that the cords of all your
house fires get out of control. make sure that they are all working. electrical appliances and extension
According to rescue service experts, 2. Work out a fire escape plan and cords are in good condition and
fires can spread within a matter make sure that all members of your aren’t damaged or frayed, as
of minutes. It is therefore critical family and staff are thoroughly damaged electrical wires can spark
to improve fire safety in your briefed on what to do if a fire and set curtains or upholstery
house and have the appropriate starts. The most important strategy alight. Refrain from running
firefighting equipment on hand. is to get everyone quickly and extension cords under carpets

18 Waterfall Issue 8 2021