CoE firefighter bows out after nearly 40 years of service

Rufus Matlou (63), a firefighter who has worked for Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) for 37 years, is enjoying his last days as a shift manager at the Leon Ferreira Fire Station.

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Matlou, who began his career as a firefighter in 1986 at Thembisa Fire Station and who has served as a shift manager at Leon Ferreira for the past seven years, is retiring at the end of March.

The dedicated emergency services worker prides himself on never having been late for work in all the years he worked at DEMS.

He explained that he started his career as an ambulance administrator when DEMS comprised of fire, rescue and medical services.

“I worked as an administrator until 1998 then as a senior firefighter. I was also an ambulance driver until 2007 and then I took up the position of acting shift manager at Thembisa Fire Station.

“When I became a fully ranked shift manager in 2016, I moved to Leon Ferreira. I have learned a lot here as the station is a lot busier,” Matlou said, adding that he wouldn’t trade his journey as a firefighter for anything.

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“It has been very enjoyable. Our job is very important because we save lives. I encourage others, especially young people, to take up careers as firefighters.

There are many opportunities in DEMS and you can further your studies.

“The career needs to be taken up by people who are emotionally strong and brave.

“Firefighters face difficult situations, so they are required to keep their composure and carry out their tasks under pressure,” explained Matlou.

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He added that integrity is very important in the profession.

Matlou has three children and four grandchildren and said he looks forward to venturing into farming after retiring because he believes his body is still capable and strong.

“I will still give back to DEMS in my retirement. If firefighters need guidance I will be happy to jump in and help,” he said.

DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi said it is sad to lose a member like Matlou because he is a disciplined, dedicated and passionate firefighter.

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“We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and hope the Lord Almighty will protect him after retirement.

Rufus has imparted a lot of knowledge to us and we will surely use it when he leaves the station,” concluded Ntladi.

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