Following the recent deaths in fires, the National Directorate of Firefighters warned that the risk of house fires “increases exponentially” with the arrival of the first cold weather and recalled the importance of taking extreme care in the use of heating systems.
In dialogue with Telenight (Channel 4), the spokesperson for the institution, Sebastián Camejo, pointed out that more than 90% of the fires recorded during the winter season originate from “human factors”.
According to the official, these situations are linked to recklessness and cases of “negligence or carelessness”.
Camejo also indicated that the main causes of the fires are related to the incorrect use of wood, gas or electric stoves.
Among the recommendations, he highlighted the need to carry out periodic maintenance of heating systems, especially in the case of chimneys.
The spokesperson recalled the importance of the so-called “chimney sweep” of the ducts to avoid the accumulation of flammable waste.
As he explained, the combination of accumulated soot and the use of green firewood can generate flames inside the ducts and favor the spread of fire towards light roofs or ceilings.
Until before last weekend, Firefighters recorded ten deaths linked to fires.
However, in the last hours two new fatalities were added, one in Montevideo and another in Paysandu.
One of the cases occurred in the Municipal neighborhood, in the Casavalle area, where a fire caused total losses in a home.
As a result of the accident, a 24-year-old young man died who had suffered serious burns. In the same episode one was injured 53-year-old woman, also with serious burns.
Furthermore, a young man of 25 years old and three minors of 3, 4 and 16 years old They received medical attention for smoke inhalation.
The second death was recorded in the city of Guichón, department of Paysandú. As reported The Telegraph and El Observador confirmed based on a statement from the local Police Headquarters, A 79-year-old man died this Sunday during a fire occurred in a home located in the city of Guichón.
The case is being investigated by the Paysandú Third Shift Prosecutor’s Office together with fire personnel.
