Blackouts in Odesa and the region: The State Emergency Service reminds residents about the risks to the power grid and the dangers of generators.
According to the head of the State Emergency Service, Marina Averina, a family of five died from poisoning due to improper use of a generator in their home. She also urged residents to check their appliances and chimneys before the heating season begins.
Residents of Odesa and the surrounding region are preparing for potential power outages amid the start of the heating season and the threat of further attacks on the energy system. A spokesperson for the State Emergency Service, Marina Averina, discussed home safety during power outages and measures that can help reduce the risk of fires and poisoning.
According to her, in previous years, the outages were accompanied by a sharp increase in the number of fires, primarily due to electrical issues. When power is restored, the simultaneous use of washing machines, hair dryers, vacuum cleaners, and other appliances overloads the old wiring. This can lead to a short circuit and a fire.
Averina reminded that last year, many homes in Odesa experienced electrical panel fires, leaving residents without power for extended periods. Therefore, after the power is restored, it is recommended to turn on appliances gradually. Boilers, washing machines, heaters, and electric stoves require particular caution.
Separately, the spokesperson explained what to consider when choosing a fire extinguisher for a home. She called the powder type a more versatile option, suitable for both electrical appliances with power and solid or soft furniture. However, she said that for electrical equipment, a carbon dioxide extinguisher is preferable.
The State Emergency Service recommends purchasing certified fire extinguishers, checking the manufacturing date and the date of the last technical inspection. AVerina emphasized that they need to be serviced once a year, otherwise the device may not function properly. She also warned against purchasing fire extinguishers that have not been serviced for six months or ten months.
Another risk is returning to traditional, wood-burning heating after a long period. In older fireplaces, chimneys may be blocked or damaged. According to the spokesperson, last winter, the number of fires caused by neglecting the rules of wood-burning heating increased sharply.
Before using electric fireplaces and heaters that have been stored for a long time, it is important to check their wiring. Over time, the wiring may have become dry and cracked, which could create a risk of a short circuit.
Marina Averina also emphasized that generators should not be installed in residential buildings, hallways, or garages. She cited an example of a family of five who died in their sleep from carbon monoxide poisoning: the generator was located on the first floor, while the people were sleeping on the second.
This type of equipment should only be used outdoors, at a safe distance from windows and doors. The generator can be refueled after it has been turned off and allowed to cool down.
Regarding tourist gas appliances, the spokesperson reminded that they are intended for use outdoors, and cautioned against using them for prolonged cooking at home. She urged readers to read the instructions for each appliance and follow the rules specified therein.