As fire season approaches, the City of Cape Town continues to invest in its Fire & Rescue Service to ensure effective and rapid response. However, fire safety is a shared responsibility, and everyone must play their part in preventing fires and protecting loved ones.
Fire Safety at Home
1. Cooking
- Keep stoves away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended.
- Practice “stop, drop, and roll” for clothing fires.
- Extinguish braai fires and use fireguards for open flames.
2. Lighting & Heating
- Always extinguish candles before sleeping; use holders.
- Place heaters away from flammable items, and turn them off when not in use.
- Store electric blankets safely and never overload electrical sockets.
3. Electrical Safety
- Unplug unused items and ensure appliances are cool before storing.
- Use extension cords safely and have regular safety inspections.
4. Smoking
- Use deep ashtrays and ensure cigarette butts are fully extinguished.
- Avoid smoking in bed and encourage smoking outdoors.
5. Flammable Goods
- Store chemicals safely, away from heat sources.
- Keep petrol, paints, and combustibles in secure, designated areas.
6. Gas Safety
- Use only one in-use gas cylinder and store others upright, away from flammable materials.
- Keep fire extinguishers handy and supervise children around gas.
7. Children
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach, and educate children about fire safety.
8. Roofs/Ceilings
- Use fire-resistant materials for thatch roofs and conduct annual chimney inspections.
9. Open Burning
- Only burn in designated, controlled areas and follow local regulations.
10. General Safety
- Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen and ensure access routes are clear.
- Regularly practice evacuation plans and store important documents in a fireproof container.
Fire Safety in Non-Residential Spaces
1. Workspaces
- Keep areas free of combustible waste, and clean machinery regularly to prevent overheating.
- Service and maintain all fire safety equipment and ensure emergency exits are accessible.
2. Buildings
- Install fire-resistant doors and maintain fire safety equipment to approved standards.
- Train staff to handle emergencies, and inspect buildings regularly for damage.
Wildfires
1. Urban Edge Residents
- Maintain a 10-meter firebreak, clear of flammable materials.
- Trim trees, prune flammable plants, and keep fire hydrants accessible.
2. General Public
- Follow the fire danger index and monitor weather conditions.
- Make fires only in designated areas, fully extinguish them with sand, and dispose of cigarette butts responsibly.
Remember: Fire safety is not only the City’s responsibility—it’s a collective effort. Stay aware, take preventative measures, and always be ready to act in case of an emergency.