Fire hazards remain one of the most underemphasised and silent menaces of modern living. And while recent tragedies have left us all reeling in shock and disbelief, many remain unaware of the appropriate measures that need to be taken to prevent fire breakouts in the home, or the protocols to follow if such a fire does break out. It is high time we take the following vital steps to minimise fire hazards in our homes.

The possibility of sabotage, as suspected by some quarters, cannot be ruled out entirely.