DISASTER MANAGEMENT RESPOND TO WEEKEND INCIDENTS AS KZN COGTA MEC HLOMUKA URGES COMMUNITIES TO REMAIN VIGILANT

Inclement weather conditions over the weekend saw disaster management teams in KZN responding to several incidents which are now under control. These include yesterday’s storm which brought hail and snow to the interior parts of the province. The storm made conditions on the roads treacherous and caused the closure of smaller access roads in areas with excessive snowfall.

KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Sipho Hlomuka has warned communities to remain vigilant as inclement weather conditions continue through the winter season. During this time, the province faces the increased risks of veld fires, house fires and fires in informal settlements as well as strong winds and extreme temparatures.

Hlomuka has warned residents about the dangers posed by sources of heat, such as candles, paraffin stoves, gas stoves, heaters and braziers, when these are left unattended, potentially starting fires that could cause injury, death and/or the destruction of property in communities.

As communities we must:

• Listen to weather warnings on radio and television

• Keep matches and candles away from children

• Never leave children unattended near a lit candle or fire

• Never start a fire or use a heater while intoxicated

• Never leave fires unattended because embers can cause uncontrolled fire

• An open fire, stove or heater should not be used to dry clothes or shoes

• Keep a window open to ensure good ventilation when using an indoor fireplace, braziers or gas heater

• Plan and request assistance with burning of fire breaks

* Never throw away cigarette stumps in an open field

Disaster management teams continue to be on stanby in areas that are prone to incidents during the winter season.