Ensuring Your Alternative Power Solutions Are Fire-Safe

Load-shedding has forced homes and businesses to rely on alternative heating and energy devices, but with this comes the need for caution and fire prevention measures.

Fidelity Fire Solutions, a leading provider of fire prevention solutions, emphasises the importance of properly installing, storing and using such devices to avoid potential risks.

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Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at Fidelity Services Group, highlights the need for constant fire prevention awareness during load-shedding and at all times.

While alternative power sources have become essential, Hattingh warns that candles, generators, inverters, gas sources, and even solar panels have the potential to cause fires based on their experiences and that of various municipal emergency services.

In particular, consumers should be aware of the specific firefighting methods required for fires involving lithium batteries. These batteries can release flammable, toxic gases when they fail or overheat, leading to fast-spreading fires that are challenging to extinguish. Extinguishing a lithium battery fire demands a specialised fire extinguisher due to the risk of battery re-ignition and thermal runaway.

Fidelity Fire Solution provides top fire prevention tips for using alternative energy sources:

Candles:

• Place candles in suitable holders.
• Never leave candles unattended, especially on combustible surfaces.
• Keep ignition sources out of reach of children.

Generators/Inverters:

• Operate generators in well-ventilated areas to prevent toxic inhalation risks.
• Be aware that generators lack earth leakage protection, making electric shocks potentially fatal.
• Ensure proper ventilation and a flat surface for inverters to prevent battery overheating.
• Tighten battery terminals during use and before use.
• Connect battery cables in the right direction.
• Use accredited installers for generators and inverters.

Gas sources:

• Maintain good room ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Keep gas cylinders at least one meter away from heat sources.
• Store gas cylinders in cool, dry places when not in use.
• Store cylinders upright.
• Only allow accredited agents to install gas cylinders for fitted appliances.
• Ignite ignition sources (matches, lighters) before opening the gas flow.

Hattingh emphasises that installing alternative power sources should not overshadow the importance of mitigating fire risks. Poorly installed or unsafe systems pose significant threats to life and property.

Households and businesses should prioritise fire prevention by implementing basics such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, evacuation plans, and swift access to emergency assistance.

Fidelity Fire Solutions underscores the criticality of fire prevention measures and urges vigilance in using alternative energy sources to ensure the safety of lives and properties during load-shedding and beyond.

Source: Make sure your alternative power solutions are not a fire hazard

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