The Gauteng Provincial Government has urged residents to exercise extreme caution as cold and wet weather conditions continue across the province.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the provincial government said residents should prepare for rainfall and very cold temperatures, with temperatures expected to drop to around 3 to 4 degrees Celsius in some parts of Gauteng.
“The combination of rain, cold conditions and wet roads may create additional risks for motorists, pedestrians and vulnerable communities,” the government said.
The provincial government has also raised concerns about households using alternative methods to keep warm.
“We are particularly concerned about the risks faced by households seeking alternative ways to keep warm during the cold weather,” it said.
Residents have been warned against illegal electricity connections, electricity theft and the vandalism of electrical infrastructure.
“These illegal activities are not only criminal but can result in electrocution, serious injuries and fatalities, while also compromising the reliability of electricity supply to communities,” the government said.
The government urged residents not to tamper with electricity infrastructure or illegally connect their homes to the electricity network.
“We urge residents never to tamper with electricity infrastructure or connect homes to the electricity network illegally.”
Parents and guardians have also been encouraged to keep children away from electrical installations, substations, exposed cables and damaged infrastructure.
Residents have further been urged to exercise caution when using heaters, stoves, candles, paraffin appliances, braziers and open fires to keep warm.
“Heating and cooking devices should never be left unattended, particularly while people are sleeping,” the government said.
It added that such devices should be kept away from curtains, bedding, clothing and other flammable materials, while homes should have adequate ventilation where applicable.
“Residents are urged never to use unsafe methods of heating that could result in carbon monoxide poisoning or a house fire,” the statement said.
“Tragically, efforts to keep warm during winter can lead to devastating fires and loss of life when basic safety precautions are ignored.”
Motorists have been advised to reduce their speed during wet conditions, maintain a safe following distance and use headlights when visibility is poor.
The government also warned motorists to “avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges”, while pedestrians were urged to avoid walking through fast-flowing water and flooded areas.
The provincial government said its disaster management and emergency response structures were continuing to monitor the weather and coordinate with municipalities and relevant stakeholders.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant, monitor official weather and emergency alerts, and check on elderly people, children and other vulnerable members of their communities.
The government said residents should also report dangerous conditions and emergencies to the relevant authorities.
