Fire is a major risk factor for both residents and businesses which can lead to loss of life, livelihood and damage to property. Thousands of people are affected annually by fires in their homes, businesses and informal settlements. It is important to know how fires start and what steps you can take to prevent them.
- Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
- Cut candles in half to prevent them falling over – and use a candle holder
- Do not smoke in bed
- If you can afford it, keep a fire extinguisher in your home; maintain it annually and learn how to use it
- Keep a bucket of sand in the kitchen if you don’t have an extinguisher; throwing sand over a small fire, especially oil, can help contain it before it gets out of control
- Keep a garden hose rolled up and ready in case of fire
- Where possible, have more than one exit point from your house
- Make an escape plan that the whole family knows about and can follow – see our Fire Safety Home Checklist
- Do not park in the way of a fire hydrant
