community-based disaster risk management and the media media kit

Other Fire Hazards in the Home
chapter 3. useful information for the media
Flammable liquids
Flammable liquids such as petrol, paints and thinners vaporize readily
and can catch fi re easily.
Always observe the following:
• They should be used away from heat or any source of fi re.
• They should be stored in small amounts, and in tightly closed metal
containers and marked clearly.
• These metal containers should be kept away from heat or any source
of ignition.
• They should not be used to start or revive a fi re.
Domestic liquefi ed petroleum gas (LPG)
This is a common and convenient cooking facility. However, basic
safety precautions must be noted.
• Ensure that the supply hose from the cylinder to the cooker is in
good condition and tightly fi tted. Such supply hoses should be of an
approved type.
• Shut off the gas when it is not in use.
• Report any leakage from the cylinder and its fi ttings immediately to
the authorized dealer or supplier.
• DO NOT attempt to search for leaks with matches or naked light.
Open all doors and windows to ventilate the leaking gas.
• Cylinders should be kept in a well-ventilated area and away from
heat. They should also be prevented from hard knocks.
Burning rubbish
It is illegal to dump and burn rubbish indiscriminately. Strong winds can
blow burning debris into an unattended house or room and start a fi re.
Lighted joss-sticks and candles
These pose a great fi re hazard. Always ensure that there is no possibility
of them falling onto combustible materials like paper, cloth, furniture,
etc.
Curtains
Ensure that curtains or other combustible materials such as table
covers or tablecloths are placed well away from cooking areas.
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