Health Ministry Urges Caution While Using Fire and Heating Appliances During Winter

Kathmandu, Dec 28 — The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has called on the public to take extra precautions while using fire, heaters and geysers during the winter season to prevent accidents.

Issuing a press statement on Sunday, MoHP Spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki warned that careless use of open fire and heating appliances could lead to serious incidents. He urged people to remain vigilant while lighting fires for warmth and operating electric heaters or geysers.

Dr Budhathoki advised limiting the use of coal-based fire sources as much as possible and stressed the importance of proper ventilation when using fire or heaters indoors. He also recommended keeping flammable items such as paper, clothes and kerosene away from fireplaces and heaters, and ensuring that fires are fully extinguished after use.

To minimize risks, the spokesperson suggested switching heaters off periodically during use and turning them off completely when not needed. He further recommended installing geyser units outside bathrooms, preferably in open spaces, and cautioned against staying in bathrooms for long periods while geysers are in operation.

The ministry has urged the public to follow these safety measures to avoid preventable winter-related accidents.