The municipality of Swakopmund has cautioned its residents to desist from illegal electrical connections and put out candles before they leave home or go to bed.

Nineteen people were left homeless after their shacks burned to the ground in Mondesa, near Swakopmund, on Monday.

The department of works from the Swakopmund municipality was on site to clear the area while the offices of the Chief Executive Officer and the Mayor handed out food, mattresses, blankets, clothes, and other basic necessities to those affected by the fire.

The municipality also cautioned the residents against illegal electrical connections and to put out fires before leaving home or going to bed.

It is further calling on homeowners to ensure that all flammable materials are kept far from cooking areas and that matches and candles are placed out of children's reach.