Advice from Manager Jorge Mendes and upcoming training
Good morning,
Did you know that by July we had already had18 deathsnationwide in urban accidents? That's afrightening number!
We were visited byCommander Jorge Mendes, afamiliar face to everyone at CNN, and we talked about this and much more. In this newsletter, we'll talk about urban accidents and what you can do to protect your condominium residents.
Advice from Commander Jorge Mendes:
Urban fires in Portugal in 2024 are increasing significantly and causing more damage. Fires in garages, solar panels, and electrical components have been commonplace.
Many fires could have been prevented if condominium owners had more information and training, and condominium management companies can play an active role in helping them. The most common problems are related to overheating, triple plugs that cause these problems, undersized kitchens, and lack of maintenance.
Firefighters are concerned about this increase in accidents. When a claim occurs, their first priority is always to search for and rescue people who are at the scene, and only then to extinguish the fires.
The work that still needs to be done involves raising awareness, especially among those who decide on self-protection measures. What can be done to raise awareness?
What are some simple measures to prevent fires in condominiums?
Commander Jorge Mendes, a veteran firefighter with over 30 years of service. We had a long conversation during his visit. Here are some measures to reduce the risk of fire in condominiums:
1- Always have the fire department's number available and visible at the building's entrance:
The sooner the fire department is notified, the sooner they arrive and the sooner they can fight the fire.
2- Inform and educate condominium owners:
Send information regularly so that they can read about what they can prevent.
3- Be careful when charging your cell phone:
Often, the cell phone is the source of the problem. If you charge it in a place without flammable materials nearby, the risk of fire will decrease.
4- Be careful at night:
Most fires occur during the night. Electrical overload can result in excessive heating, electrical faults, and even explosions. It is essential to avoid connecting too many devices to a single outlet.
5- Excessive Use of Electrical Appliances:
Spread out the use of appliances throughout the day and use extension cords with overload protectors.
6- Inadequate Electrical Maintenance:
Perform regular inspections and upgrade the electrical system as needed. If you hear a buzzing sound coming from electrical components, it is a sign that maintenance is required.
7- Caution when using heaters and fireplaces:
With temperatures dropping and the increased use of heating systems, it is crucial to take preventive measures to avoid accidents.
Here are some important warnings:
Use of Heaters
- Constant vigilance:Turn off heating equipment when you leave home.
- Avoid Electrical Overload:Do not plug too many appliances into the same outlet.
- Keep Away from Furniture and Flammable Products:Keep heaters away from furniture and flammable materials.
- Do Not Use to Dry Clothes:Avoid using heaters to dry clothes.
Use of Fireplaces/Wood-burning Stoves
- Technical Advice:Consult a qualified technician for installation.
- Proper Ventilation:Keep the dwelling well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of toxic gases.
- Periodic Cleaning:Clean the fireplace, wood stove, and chimney regularly.
- Safe Collection of Ashes:Only collect ashes when there is no incandescent material.
- Avoid Flammable Liquids:Do not use petroleum, alcohol, or other flammable liquids to light the fire.
- Avoid Overloading and Burning Trash:Do not overload and avoid burning paper or trash.
- Protection and Fire Extinguisher: Useprotection to prevent particle projection and have a fire extinguisher at home.
Urban fires in Portugal are a frightening reality, but with proper preparation and the right measures, we can minimize risks and protect our lives and property, as well as those of our fellow residents.
Prevention is the best way to avoid fires, and it is essential that everyone is aware of self-protection measures. We thank Commander Jorge Mendesfor sharing his knowledge.R2 Seguros iscommitted to providing information and services to keep our community safe and prepared. We advise you to share this information with your neighbors.
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