Fire departments inspect hydrants
The fire department ensures fire hydrants are in good working condition for an effective reaction to fire incidents.
With winter fast approaching, fire safety in communities is a priority.
The Lonehill Fire Department and the founder and former chair of the Paulshof Hill Community Association, Lita Jacobsen, inspected fire hydrants in the area on April 5. The two parties joined forces to ensure the cleaning, visibility and functioning of the hydrants. Faulty hydrants will be recorded for referral to the relevant department.
A fire hydrant is a connection point that is used by firemen to tap directly into piped main water supplies to add to their emergency water tanks. Fire hydrants are strategically placed along roads, streets and workplaces and they are often highlighted for visibility to the public and firemen. Fire hydrants should be in a clear and easily accessible area to prevent wasting time locating the fire hydrants during an emergency.
According to Lonehill fire department’s platoon commander, Amanthus Tshabalala, it is important to have a visible, efficient fire hydrant for an emergency to be handled effectively. Most residents who are not aware that there are hydrants installed on municipal property outside their yards often cover them with plants and other garden upgrades. “When we respond to a call, we usually have less than 3 000 litres of water in the truck. If the hydrants are not working or visible enough, a lot can be at stake,” said Tshabalala.
“It is essential for the residents to know that we are not at rest, we are continuously doing our monthly hydrant inspection in all of Region A, which is a big area to cover. We are always hard at work and willing to assist everyone,” he added.
Jacobsen mentioned that it is great to see the fire department inspecting the hydrants. “We are very thankful to the team for making sure the hydrants are visible and in good condition.
“Last year alone, we lost three properties due to fires and every time that happens, we get loaded with insurance as it is regarded as a high-risk area. We as community members have to work together to combat risk factors in our area,” she said.
Tshabalala advised the general public to use the call centre before calling the station. The call centre will always direct you to the nearest available unit. The emergency call centre number is 10177, and the mobile number is 112.
Tshabalala shares some safety tips residents can be mindful of to keep safe through the winter.
- When dealing with gas, residents are advised to use licensed, accredited installers. Make sure your cylinders are properly closed after use and always keep away naked flames around their cylinders.
- Install and regularly test smoke detectors in your home.
- keep a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.
- never leave cooking food unattended on the stove on in the oven.
- Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
- Avoid smoking indoors, especially next to flammables.
- Make sure your fireplace is not attached to any combustible material, chimineas should be cleaned regularly to avoid residue build-up.
- When logging an emergency call, we urge residents to phone the call centre as if one station is out on a call, they can contact the nearest available.
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