With freezing temperatures forcing many South Africans to rely on heaters, candles, paraffin stoves and open fires to stay warm, safety experts are warning that the cold weather also increases the risk of burn injuries, accidental house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Healthcare professionals and police have urged the public to take extra precautions this winter, warning that many of these incidents are preventable.
Mande Toubkin, general manager of emergency, trauma, transplant and corporate social investment at Netcare, said accidental fires can spread rapidly and have devastating consequences.
“Accidental fires can start and get out of control incredibly quickly, leading to the risk of burns, severe injury and even endangering lives. Often, burns and heating-related injuries are preventable, but people tend to underestimate the risks in their own homes or familiar environments.”
She said children are particularly vulnerable and should never be left unsupervised around heat sources.
