Following a snowy, cold weekend in parts of the country and cold weather conditions which are anticipated to persist throughout the week, Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) cautions residents in Ekurhuleni to be on high alert and to keep warm.<\/p>\n
The bitterly cold conditions are particularly impacting those who stay in informal settlements.<\/p>
\u201cVery cold conditions are expected through the week, which will force members of the community to use different heating mechanisms to keep warm,\u201d said William Ntladi, the district manager media liaison for DEMS.<\/p>\n
\u201cDEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might occur as a result of fires.<\/p>
\u201cAdults are requested to be on high alert and must make sure they keep matches out of children`s hands.<\/p>\n
\u201cOpen flames such candles, braziers and all types of heaters should not be left unattended.<\/p>\n
\u201cOther fires such as veld fires can be caused by human actions, like throwing lit cigarette butts into the dry grass or combustible materials.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ntladi added that shack fires, thatched roof structures and veld fires can be started easily and, fuelled by strong winds, can spread rapidly.<\/p>\n
\u201cSuch fires can be caused by human error and can end up being extremely destructive and fatal, in the worst case scenario,\u201d Ntladi said.<\/p>\n
Residents are advised to listen out for warnings on the weather and to adhere to the safety tips from officials.<\/p>\n
\u201cDEMS is always prepared to timeously respond to all incidents within the municipality.<\/p>\n
\u201cCommunities must also assist in mitigating the occurrences of emergencies.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn the case of an emergency, call 10177 or 011 458-0911 or 112 from a cellphone.<\/p>\n
\u201cEnsure that you have the emergency call centre telephone numbers saved and visible on your telephone or cellphone.<\/p>\n
\u201cSpeak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency.<\/p>\n
\u201cProvide the operators with all the necessary details required.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo not end the conversation until all questions are answered,\u201d said Ntladi.<\/p>\n
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