If you live in an apartment block or a gated community, a fire can feel like a nightmare that could happen any minute. The good news is that most fires are preventable, and knowing what to do when flames appear can save lives. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice you can start using today.
First off, keep the common areas clean. Storing cardboard boxes, old furniture or oily rags near heaters is a recipe for disaster. Throw away trash regularly and make sure recycling bins are not overloaded with flammable material.
Check your smoke detectors. In many South African complexes the building manager handles this, but it’s worth testing them yourself. Press the test button once a month – if you hear the alarm, you’re good to go. If not, let management know right away.
Cooking is the top cause of residential fires. Use timers when frying or grilling, and never leave a stovetop unattended. Keep a fire‑extinguishing blanket in the kitchen; it’s cheap and can smother a small grease flare before it spreads.
Avoid overloading electrical outlets. Plugging too many devices into one socket can cause overheating and spark a blaze. If you notice flickering lights or warm plugs, unplug everything and call an electrician.
If the alarm sounds, stay calm. Panic makes it harder to think clearly. Grab your phone, but don’t waste time scrolling – use it to call emergency services if you can.
Leave your belongings behind. Shoes, phones, wallets – they’re not worth risking a life over. Follow the designated fire escape routes posted in hallways. Never use elevators; they may stop on the floor where the fire is burning.
If smoke fills the hallway, stay low. Crawl on your hands and knees to keep breathing cleaner air. Cover your mouth with a damp cloth if you have one – it helps filter out harmful particles.Once outside, move far enough away from the building so that firefighters can work safely. Do not re‑enter until officials give the all‑clear. Even if the fire looks small, hidden embers can reignite later.
After the incident, talk to your landlord about any damage and ask for a written plan on how future fires will be handled. Knowing the steps ahead of time makes you feel more in control.
Remember, fire safety is a shared responsibility. When everyone follows simple rules – keeping exits clear, checking detectors, and handling electricity wisely – the chances of a residential complex fire dropping dramatically. Stay alert, act fast when needed, and keep these tips handy for peace of mind.
A devastating fire at the Broadwalk Urban Village complex in Midrand has destroyed around 130 apartments. The fire, which started on the second floor, resulted in injuries and the discovery of one fatality. While the cause remains unknown, displaced residents have been offered alternative accommodations by the complex owners. This event follows another recent fire at the Cemetery View settlement.