Search and rescue crews from the Ekurhuleni’s DEMS are among the teams deployed to help with the search and recovery mission efforts in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
Hundreds of people died following recent heavy rains that triggered floods, land subsidence and mudslides.
The province experienced devastating flooding in recent weeks in which hundreds of people were left homeless after their homes were either damaged or completely destroyed and hundreds of people died, while numerous people went missing or unaccounted for.
According to DEMS spokesperson, William Ntladi, the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team deployed by the provincial government consists of four Ekurhuleni DEMS’ personnel.
They have joined the search and rescue crews from various provinces to help local emergency workers in the province look for the scores of missing people.
The Ekurhuleni personnel are trained as USAR rescue technicians and are skilled in swift water, confined space, wilderness, structural, trench and high angle rope rescues.
Ekurhuleni’s Bafana Masilela, Pusetso Mosia, Sithembiso Khoza and Ngwasheng Choene form part of the provincial USAR team that left for KZN.
“They were trained in Boksburg in the specialised field in preparation for future global catastrophes.
“The City of Ekurhuleni emergency services is in the forefront when it comes to USAR specialisation. The course modules are acquired in the Boksburg based DEMS training academy known as Leon Ferreira fire station.
“Previously the City`s rescuers participated in various local and international rescue missions involving earthquakes, tsunamis and floods,” said Ntladi.
The City said it is proud of its officials for making a significant contribution to the disaster-stricken province.
ALSO READ: Be aware of flashfloods
ALSO READ: Hundreds flee homes as floods hit informal settlement
