TRNC police issues fire safety warning

The North Cyprus Police Headquarters Fire Department have issue a warning on fire safety saying that many recent fires have been caused by the wrong use of multi plugs, lack of cleaning of chimneys and kebab grill funnels, and ash from wood burning stoves being thrown into rubbish bins. 

The statement from the Fire Department warns the public to take the following precautions:

1. Take hoses from gas stoves and gas heaters and test the leakage a couple of times a year using soapy water. If it is damaged it should be replaced with a new one. Hoses should be attached using clamps.
2. If gas is smelt, electrical switches and any items that could produce sparks should be turned off in order to prevent an explosion or fire. In the event of a gas leak, turn off the electricity from the mains, then open the windows and doors and thoroughly air the premises.
3. Clean chimneys and wood stove burner funnels at least once a year and do not deposit ash in dustbins. Chimneys should be at least one metre higher than the roof.
4.   Do not place flammable objects near fireplaces, heaters and air conditioning units. Place a screen in front of the fireplace.
5. In the event of a power cut, remove pugs of electric appliances from the socket. Occasionally remove pugs and clean in order to prevent corrosion.
6. In order not to overload the power supply, do not use heavy duty electric appliances at the same time. Avoid using more than one appliance on a multi plug. Avoid using extension cords for appliances that use a lot of electricity (such as a toaster, iron, heater, etc.) and attach these appliances directly to the switch.
7. Do not use appliances (such as washing machines, dishwashers, televisions, computers, etc.) when outside of the home or while sleeping.
8. Do not let children play with fire or matches.
9. Along with all these precautions, the purchase of a powder or carbon dioxide extinguisher is advised, to be applied as a first response to a fire.

In the event of a fire, immediately call the Fire Service on 199.

Cyprus Online Today