The Price of Carelessness

 The Price of Carelessness: 48 Fires in the Stolin District, Killing 6 People Fire statistics in the Stolin District are alarming. Since the beginning of the year, 48 fires have been recorded in the district. The most frightening aspect is the irreparable losses: 6 people have died in the fires. Firefighters are paying particular attention to the condition of outbuildings, where fires most often occur. According to operational data, 22 fires—almost every second case—occurred in outbuildings (sheds, garages, bathhouses). Owners often take the safety of these buildings less seriously than they do with their homes, leading to tragic consequences. The most common causes of fires in outbuildings in the Stolin region are: 1. Violation of electrical network and equipment operating rules (old wiring, "twisted" connections, use of homemade extension cords, or electrical appliances left plugged in). 2. Violation of the rules for the operation of furnaces, heat-generating units and devices (uncleaned chimneys, overheating the furnace, using homemade furnaces and heaters). 3. Careless handling of fire (when smoking, burning dry vegetation and standing grass). Fire is a fast and often unpredictable enemy, but many fires can be prevented by observing basic safety rules: • Monitor the wiring. All electrical wiring in sheds and garages must be in good working order, and light bulbs must be protected by glass shades. When leaving, always de-energize the building. • Check the serviceability of the furnaces. If there is a furnace in the building, regularly whitewash the chimney (this will help you immediately notice any cracks) and clean it of soot. • Do not smoke in outbuildings, especially where hay, straw or firewood is stored. • Do not store flammable liquids and materials in outbuildings near heat sources or electrical appliances. • Tidy up the area. Do not store flammable waste and dry grass close to the walls of buildings. Remember: burning dry vegetation at the roots is prohibited by law! Fires for burning waste may only be made in windless weather at a safe distance from buildings, with a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher at hand. Remember: it is easier to prevent a fire than to put it out. Take care of yourself and your property! In case of emergency, immediately call 101 or 112.