In many South African communities, especially in informal settlements and rural areas, paraffin stoves are a primary source of cooking and heating during the cold winter months. While paraffin is an affordable and accessible fuel, improper use can lead to devastating fires, burns, and health issues.
This article provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure the safe use of paraffin stoves, helping you keep your home warm without compromising safety.
Understanding the Risks
Paraffin stoves, if mishandled, can pose several dangers:
Fire Hazards: Unattended or improperly placed stoves can ignite nearby flammable materials.
Burn Injuries: Accidental contact with hot surfaces or spilled paraffin can cause severe burns.
Poisoning: Children may mistake paraffin for water or soft drinks, leading to accidental ingestion.
Respiratory Issues: Using stoves in poorly ventilated areas can lead to the inhalation of harmful fumes.
According to the Paraffin Safety Association of Southern Africa (PASASA), thousands of paraffin-related incidents occur annually, often resulting in injuries or fatalities
Purchasing Safe Equipment
When buying a paraffin stove:
Check for NRCS Approval: Ensure the stove has a homologation/approval number starting with AZ/1906/2006/XXXX or NRCS/1906/2006/XXXX, indicating it meets safety standards.
Inspect the Stove: Look for visible safety features like a safety cut-off mechanism. Avoid stoves with rust, damage, or instability.
Buy from Reputable Sellers: Purchase stoves from trusted retailers to ensure authenticity and quality.
Safe Usage Practices
Placement and Operation
Stable Surface: Always place the stove on a firm, flat, and solid surface to prevent tipping.
Distance from Flammables: Keep the stove at least one meter away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable items.
Ventilation: Use the stove in well-ventilated areas to avoid the buildup of harmful fumes.
Supervision: Never leave a lit stove unattended. Always extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Refueling and Storage
Refuel Outdoors: Always refill the stove outside to prevent paraffin spills indoors.
Cool Before Refueling: Ensure the stove has cooled down completely before adding more paraffin.
Proper Containers: Store paraffin in clearly marked, child-proof containers. Never use bottles that previously contained food or drinks.
Away from Children: Keep paraffin and stoves out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or burns.
Emergency Preparedness
Fire Extinguishing Materials: Keep a bucket of sand or a fire extinguisher nearby. Remember, water should not be used to extinguish paraffin fires as it can spread the flames.
Emergency Contacts: Have emergency numbers readily available and ensure all family members know them.
First Aid Knowledge: Educate yourself and family members on basic first aid for burns and poisoning.
Learn More: Essential Fire Prevention Tips for Low-Income Communities
Educating the Community
Awareness Campaigns: Participate in or organize community programs to educate others about paraffin safety.
Child Education: Teach children about the dangers of paraffin and the importance of not playing near stoves.
Report Unsafe Practices: Inform local authorities about vendors selling unsafe stoves or storing paraffin improperly.
Safer Alternatives to Paraffin Stoves
While paraffin stoves are widely used due to their affordability, several safer alternatives are becoming more accessible in South African communities. One such option is gel fuel stoves, which use a non-toxic, alcohol-based gel that burns cleaner and reduces the risk of explosion. Gas stoves powered by LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) are another alternative, offering efficient heat and fewer emissions when used correctly. Solar cookers and electric hot plates are also safer, especially in areas with stable electricity or solar infrastructure.
Community initiatives and government programs occasionally provide subsidies or donations for these alternatives, making them more reachable for low-income households. Switching to these safer options, when possible, can significantly reduce the risk of fire, burns, and indoor air pollution, enhancing the overall safety and health of your home.
Paraffin stoves are a vital resource for many South African households during winter. By following these safety guidelines, you can protect your family and community from potential hazards. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritize safety in your home.
Learn More: Safety using: gas, paraffin and candles
