Residents thank firefighters

Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness and residents who live near the Simmer and Jack landfill, which was burning for a week, came out of the comfort of their homes and dipped into their own pockets to offer firefighters a meal as a gesture of appreciation.

On September 8, GCN reported a fire which had engulfed the landfill.

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Nearby residents were overwhelmed by the smoke and ash particles in the air.

Cousins Merril Heynes and Debra Brits drove to Pick n Pay on September 9 to buy food for firefighters who were working all night to extinguish the tricky blaze.

Merril said she thought about sending boerewors rolls to the firefighters that night.

“I woke up the next morning and went to ask if we could bring some food for them.”

After getting permission, Merril and Debra bought a sandwich platter, fruits, snacks and cold beverages, and delivered the food to the firefighters.

Merril added that as a community member she was grateful and they wanted to show they care.

“Although it is their job, their work is not easy. It is a dangerous and thankless job.

“We are quick to complain and think that is their job.”

Merril said the fire was frightening for her.

“The smoke was terrible. It looked like there was a sitting mist outside; we could hear small explosions.

“My concern was the animals that were at the landfill.”

The fire continued to burn throughout the week.

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According to media liaison of DEMS Eric Maloka, the fire was extinguished on September 16.

On September 12, excavators, bulldozers and compacting machinery were brought into the dumping site.

“Sand was poured and compacted to smother the fire and on Sunday extra machinery from Delmas was brought in,” said Maloka.

Ward 36 Clr Wendy Morgan commended DEMS, who were on site since Tuesday, working under very difficult circumstances as this was not a normal veld or house fire they were dealing with and access to the fire was extremely difficult.

“The cause of the fire is undetermined and investigations are ongoing,” said Maloka.

City of Ekurhuleni announced the closure of the landfill until further notice on September 9.