Gauteng residents urged to exercise caution with heating devices amid cold front

JOHANNESBURG - A strong cold snap is in full swing in Johannesburg on Friday and residents have been urged to practice caution when using heating devices.

On Thursday, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warned of cold fronts set to hit parts of the country this weekend, with daytime and overnight temperatures in Gauteng expected to drop significantly.

This series of cold fronts approaching the country brings along with it forecast snow over mountainous areas.

Already on standby for possible fires across all seven regions of Johannesburg, city emergency service personnel say closer attention will be given to areas with informal settlements, as residents there are most vulnerable to the harsh weather.

Joburg EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi: “Residents are urged to continue to exercise caution when using heating devices for example heaters, paraffin stoves, braizers/imbawula, not to leave them unattended while unused to prevent fire incidents at home.”