Following the implementation of water restrictions and water-shedding across the metro, Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) would like residents, industrial and other business communities to be extra cautious in the prevention of structural fires.
Members of the public using the bucket brigade system, hosepipes and other water extinguishing agents will face a problem during scheduled water-shedding times.
“From an emergency services perspective, DEMS would like to assure communities that these water-shedding schedules won’t affect our primary response operations to fire-related incidents,” said William Ntladi, district manager media liaison for DEMS.
“Contingency plans are in place to remedy the situation should the need arise.
“The metro’s water department has been engaged and is on standby for intervention, as and when required.
“The two departments are in constant consultation at all times and are collectively working together to eliminate any potential challenges.
“The schedule has been communicated to all departments and officials will simultaneously be sent out with firefighters to remedy any water shortages during structural fires in affected areas.
“This is to enhance effective firefighting operations.”
Fire stations and fire engines have the water-shedding schedule on board and on their notice boards.
All water tankers and foam tankers are constantly ready to respond as a district to all fire-related incidents.
“In extreme cases, suction deep lifting from the nearest open water sources around the metro will be put in place to shuttle water to the required fire scenes.
“Structural facilities with water reservoir tankers are being identified for water shuttling during fire ground operations,” Ntladi said.
DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might erupt as a result.
Communities affected by fire-related incidents are advised to contact the call centre immediately, to render swift intervention.
In case of an emergency:
- Call the metro’s emergency number 011 458-0911, 112 from a cellphone, or the national emergency number 10177.
- Ensure that you have the emergency call centre contact numbers readily and clearly displayed or saved for everyone to use.
- Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency.
- Provide the operators with all the necessary details required.
- Do not end the conversation until all questions have been answered.
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