Home fires can be devastating for homeowners if not responded to promptly. On Sunday 21 February at around 11:56 a potential crisis was averted when a fire broke out at a home in Moller Street, Meyers Park in Pretoria North. The fire had started in the Lapa area and fortunately the resident was at home and immediately activated his panic alarm.

Fidelity ADT Reaction Officer, Alfred Letong and back up officer, Simon Seopela, arrived and found the Lapa in flames. The resident was using his hosepipe to try and douse the flames when the officers arrived. They both quickly started collecting water from the pool in buckets and assisted the homeowner to battle the blaze.

“Their diligent team effort paid off reducing the fire to a few burning embers and together they managed to contain the fire until the fire department arrived. No injuries were sustained.

Leon Muller, District manager for Fidelity ADT says, “One of the most common causes of residential fires are indoor or outdoor fireplaces. Thatch lapas are especially vulnerable. Other causes of household fires include worn out electrical wires and appliances, burning candles, heaters, electric blankets, children playing with matches, gas leaks and burning oil left unattended on a stove,” he says.

Muller offers the following do’s and don’ts for residents:

DO:

• Install smoke alarms and have them linked to your alarm system
• Buy at least one fire extinguisher for your home
• Know your emergency numbers and what to do in an emergency
• Check electrical cables for faults and take note of warnings on electrical appliances
• Keep low when exiting a smoke-filled room and cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth
• Work out an emergency fire drill with your family

DON’T:

• Leave a burning candle, heater, pot of oil or fire unattended – ever!
• Pack up your personal belongings before getting to safety
• Try to put an oil fire out with water
• Open a door which is hot to the touch
• Go back into the house if you’ve made it outside safely
• Go into a room that is on fire

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COMPILED ON BEHALF OF FIDELITY ADT BY CATHY FINDLEY PUBLIC RELATIONS. FOR MEDIA QUERIES CONTACT JACQUI MOLOI ON 071 764 8233 OR EMAIL This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.