This year, 34 people have died in fires in Austria, most of them within their own four walls. Statistically speaking, the risk of fire increases again during Advent. The fire brigade therefore has tips to reduce this.
Advent is a time of reflection. For many people, candles and fireplaces are part of life. But with each flame, the risk of a pre-Christmas tragedy increases. “Many people underestimate how to deal with open fire,” says section fire chief Stefan Schaub van Amstetten, who also works as an expert in preventive fire protection at the district fire command. Because Advent wreaths or scented candles reach temperatures of up to 800 degrees even outside the yellow-glowing flame. “This radiant heat ignites curtains, arrangements, napkins or tablecloths from a distance of a few centimeters,” Schaub warns.
He therefore has important tips ready. Most importantly: never leave burning candles unattended – even for a short time – and use them only in stable candle holders. “The drier and spindler the branches are, the greater the risk of fire,” Schaub also emphasizes. He therefore advises to pay special attention to ‘needling’.
Correct behavior in the event of fire
Anyone celebrating with children should also make them clear about the fire hazard. “Lighters and matches should therefore be kept out of reach,” Floriani calls for. In addition, your own children should be informed about how to behave correctly in the event of a fire. “First and foremost, this means staying calm,” says Schaub.
First try to extinguish the fire yourself with water or a fire extinguisher. If this does not work, leave the room, apartment or house immediately and call the emergency number (122). “Roommates and neighbors must be warned and the fire brigade must be expected in a prominent place,” Schaub explains.
Buy a smoke detector
He also highly recommends purchasing a smoke detector. These little rescuers only cost a few euros and significantly reduce the chance of fire spreading. According to a study by the Road Safety Board (KFV), one in two people over 65 have not yet installed detectors. Retirees in particular are hit above average by fires. Half of the fire deaths last year were seniors
“Physical limitations can cost you crucial time to get to safety in the event of a fire. In addition, the sense of smell, vision and hearing often decline with age, which can lead to dangerous situations not being noticed in time,” explains Armin Kaltenegger from KFV.
Source: Krone
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