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A lit stove seen in the picture.
Gauteng Health MEC Faith Mazibuko has called on residents to be cautious as temperatures plummet across the province.
She has also called on residents to play an active role in preventing burn-related incidents.
This is because many households rely on heaters, paraffin stoves, and open fires to keep warm.
However, the unsafe use of these heating sources places people, particularly children and the elderly, at risk. Between January and April this year, one of Gauteng’s health-specialised burns units recorded 116 paediatric burn admissions.
Gauteng Health Department spokesperson Steve Mabona says, “MEC Mazibuko is urging parents and carers to take precautions to reduce the risk of burns by keeping children away from open flames, heaters, paraffin stoves, hot liquids and cooking areas. In the event of a burn injury, the affected area should immediately be cooled under clean running water for 20 minutes, and immediate medical attention should be sought for serious burns.”
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