Health authorities caution residents on safe winter heating after child burn cases rise

As winter temperatures continue to drop across Gauteng, Faith Mazibuko has urged residents to take extra precautions to prevent burn-related injuries linked to heating devices and unsafe fire practices.

The Gauteng Department of Health and Wellness warned that winter often sees a rise in burn incidents as households turn to heaters, paraffin stoves, candles, open fires, hot water and electrical appliances to stay warm.

According to the department, children and elderly people remain among the most vulnerable to these injuries.

Residents were also cautioned about the dangers of using braziers, commonly known as imbawula, indoors or in poorly ventilated spaces.

The department said unattended braziers pose serious risks, including severe burn injuries, carbon monoxide poisoning and death.

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The warning forms part of National Burns Awareness Week, observed from May 5 to 9, which aims to educate communities about burn prevention and promote safer practices at home, in workplaces and public spaces.

“It remains a concern that the majority of admissions involve children,” the department said in a statement.

One of Gauteng’s busiest specialised burns units recorded 743 paediatric burn admissions in 2024 and 2025, with around 80% of cases linked to hot water burns, flame burns and electrical injuries.

Between January and April this year alone, the same facility admitted 116 children for burn-related injuries.

Mazibuko urged parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and keep children away from open flames, heaters, paraffin stoves, hot liquids and cooking areas.

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“Residents are also advised to ensure that electrical appliances, gas equipment and heating devices are safely used and properly maintained.

“Candles, fires and cooking should never be left unattended, as this may lead to devastating incidents, particularly among children,” she said.

The MEC also encouraged residents to familiarise themselves with basic burn first aid procedures.

“In the event of a burn injury, the affected area should immediately be cooled under clean running water for 20 minutes, and immediate medical attention should be sought for serious burns,” said Mazibuko.

The department warned against applying ice, toothpaste, butter, oil or traditional remedies to burns, saying these could worsen injuries and increase the risk of infection.

Residents were also advised not to burst blisters or remove clothing stuck to burnt skin, as this may cause further tissue damage and complications.