Thatched roof structure saved
The risk factor was high as other thatch roof structures in the neighbourhood were vulnerable to the spread of the fire.
An unoccupied thatched roof structure in Morninghill was saved by the prompt response of City of Ekurhuleni firefighting crews on November 9.
Firefighters from the Bedfordview, Edenvale and Primrose fire stations were involved.
William Ntladi, spokesperson for Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services, said the Ekurhuleni emergency call centre received the call at 11.32am and immediately dispatched crews to 27 Boeing Road West, Morninghill.
On arrival, firefighting crews found a massive thatched roof structure engulfed by flames.
“Active firefighting was immediately initiated and the fire brought under control,” Ntladi said.
“Flames were prevented from spreading to the rest of the building by making fire breaks. Risk was very high as other thatch roof structures in the neighbourhood were also subjected to the fire spread.”
He said no casualties were recorded as a result of the fire.
The actual cause of the fire is still under investigation.
A preliminary investigation indicates that wooden remnants near the building were set alight by an unknown person; the flames then spread to the roof and, fanned by strong winds, were soon burning vigorously.
Residents are reminded that the emergency numbers are:
• 10177 – national toll-free number
• 112 from a cellular phone
• 011 458 0911 – Ekurhuleni life-threatening emergency line
