DA concerned over understaffing at Boksburg fire station
The DA also said as far as reservists are concerned, the fire station only has three, which is worrying the opposition party as reservists play an important role in assisting firefighters.
The Leon Ferreira fire station in Boksburg is 14 per cent short of the firefighters it needs to operate optimally.
This is according to a Michael Waters MP, DA Deputy Chief Whip and Lethabong Constituency Head, based on a parliamentary reply which he received.
“According to the reply the optimal number of firefighters should be 37, while the actual number is 32 resulting in the fire station being short of five fire fighters,” said Waters.
“There is supposed to be an absolute minimum of eight firefighters per shift in order to staff the ambulance as well as fire engines.
“This under-staffing has a direct impact on the quality of service that can be provided in case of an emergency. In addition when fire fighters are sick, on leave or attending courses, it places further strain on the remaining firefighters as there is no additional staff to fill these positions.”
He said in addition, the reply revealed that all 32 firefighters have passed their written exams as well as all practical exams.
“The DA will be asking more questions as to when the vacant positions will be filled.”
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