Children Escape Unharmed After Playing with Hot Glue
Natalie Nyathi
A potentially dangerous situation unfolded in the Verulam Central Business District (CBD) yesterday, when a small house fire erupted at a residence on Jacaranda Avenue.
Quick thinking from neighbors ensured that two young children, an 11-year-old boy and his 4-year-old sister, escaped without any injuries.
The incident occurred while the children’s mother was out shopping for items related to her birthday. According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), neighbors noticed smoke emanating from the house and immediately investigated. They discovered a fire inside a cupboard and acted swiftly, extinguishing the flames by dousing them with water before they could spread.
“Members arrived on scene and established that the boy aged 11 and a girl aged 4 were inside the residence at the time of the incident,” RUSA reported.
The older child explained to RUSA officers that the fire was accidental. He admitted to experimenting with a hot glue gun and using a matchstick to ignite the glue, which in turn caused clothing stored in the cupboard to catch alight. “The fire resulted in minor damage to the cupboard and clothing only,” authorities confirmed.
While hot glue is generally considered non-toxic under normal conditions, it can pose risks if misused. Overheating hot glue can cause a chemical breakdown of the adhesive and release irritating fumes. Molten hot glue can also cause burns upon skin contact.
This incident underscores the critical importance of fire safety, especially when children are involved. Experts recommend the following precautions to prevent fires and ensure children’s safety:
Store matches and lighters safely. Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet. Supervise children. Never leave children unattended near stoves, burning candles, or other heat sources, even for a short time. Educate children about fire safety. Teach children about the dangers of fire and explain that fire is a tool, not a toy. “Children need to be taught at an early age about the dangers of playing with fire in an effort to prevent injuries, death and damage to property.” Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Practice fire drills at least twice a year so children can practice their escape routes. “Make sure all family members know the plan. Practice the escape route every month.” Teach emergency procedures. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do if they hear them. Ensure they know how to call emergency numbers like 9-1-1. “Get out, stay out.” Emphasize that once out of a burning building, they should never go back inside.
While hot glue is generally safe, it’s important to use it responsibly. Operate at the recommended temperature. Avoid overheating, as it increases risks.
Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling concentrated fumes. Turn off when not in use. If you don’t plan to use the glue gun for more than 30-40 minutes, switch it off. Keep out of reach of children and pets. A hot glue gun should never be left unattended around kids. Handle burns properly. If hot glue touches your skin, immediately place the area under cool running water.
The quick response of neighbors and the unharmed escape of the children in Verulam serve as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and proactive fire safety measures.
