Gauteng residents have been warned to take extra care as temperatures fall sharply across the province, with readings dropping as low as 3°C and rainfall affecting some areas.
The Gauteng Provincial Government has urged residents to put safety first, particularly when using alternative methods to stay warm during the cold and wet conditions.
The warning comes as households, particularly in informal settlements, face an increased risk of fires when using stoves, candles, paraffin appliances, braziers and open fires for heating.
Gauteng Warns Against Illegal Electricity Connections
Provincial government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga has specifically cautioned residents against using illegal electricity connections as they seek ways to keep warm.
Informal settlements are particularly vulnerable to fires, which can leave families homeless and, in some cases, result in loss of life.
Mhlanga said illegal electricity connections also pose a serious danger to residents and communities.
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“These illegal activities are not only criminal but can result in electrocution, serious injuries and fatalities, while also compromising the reliability of electricity supply to communities. We urge residents never to tamper with electricity infrastructure or connect homes to the electricity network illegally,” he said.
The provincial government has also called on residents to exercise extreme caution when using heating and cooking appliances inside their homes.
Cold Weather Heating Safety Warning For Gauteng Homes
Mhlanga urged residents not to leave heating devices unattended, especially while people are asleep.
He warned that appliances and open flames should be kept away from items that can easily catch fire, including curtains, bedding and clothing.
“Heating and cooking devices should never be left unattended, particularly while people are sleeping. They must be kept away from curtains, bedding, clothing and other flammable materials, and homes must have adequate ventilation where applicable. Residents are urged never to use unsafe methods of heating that could result in carbon monoxide poisoning or a house fire,” he added.
Residents have also been reminded to ensure that homes have adequate ventilation where necessary and to avoid heating methods that could expose occupants to carbon monoxide poisoning or increase the risk of a house fire.
Gauteng Motorists Urged To Take Care In Wet Weather
The safety warning extends beyond households, with motorists being urged to adjust their driving during rainy conditions.
Drivers have been advised to reduce their speed, keep a safe following distance and switch on their headlights when visibility is poor.
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They have also been warned against attempting to cross flooded roads or bridges.
Pedestrians have similarly been urged to stay away from flooded areas and avoid walking through fast-flowing water.
