VIDEO | Dr Mokoena urges residents to prioritise gas and paraffin safety as burn cases rise

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – Clinical Manager at Pelonomi Hospital, Dr Lucas Mokoena has urged residents, especially those living in informal settlements, to exercise extreme caution when using gas cylinders, paraffin stoves and other heating devices during the cold season.

He is a Medical Doctor.

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Speaking in a public safety awareness message, DR Mokoena highlighted the growing dangers associated with unsafe handling of flammable materials, warning that a single mistake can lead to devastating fires, severe injuries and loss of life.

He stressed that many informal settlement fires are caused by unattended stoves, leaking gas cylinders, illegal electricity connections and candles left burning overnight. Residents were encouraged to regularly check gas equipment, keep paraffin away from children and avoid overloading electrical connections.

He further raised concern about the pressure placed on healthcare facilities dealing with burn victims, revealing that Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital remains the only hospital in the Free State equipped to handle serious burn cases.

The Dr called on communities to work together in preventing avoidable tragedies by reporting unsafe conditions and educating families about fire prevention measures.

“As temperatures continue to drop, residents are urged to use heating devices responsibly to protect lives and property,” he said.

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