Firefighting, a critical service protecting lives and property, has evolved remarkably over the decades.
Germiston City News visited the Wadeville Fire Station to speak with district manager Mike Meyer, and shift managers Mannie Pretorius and Hennie Marai, who have each dedicated over 30 years to the community.
Reflecting on the transformation in firefighting and fire engines, the trio emphasised the dramatic shift from manually operated to electrically powered engines.
“Firefighting has evolved significantly since we began, long before modern techniques were developed,” they shared.
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“Initially, we relied on simple collective efforts and knew every piece of equipment personally because we assembled it ourselves.”
Meyer, who joined the firefighting profession in 1983, noted that it was not always a professional field.
“Firefighters were volunteers or part-time workers, lacking the professional training and protective gear we see today,” he said.
“Despite these limitations, those early brigades laid the foundation for future advancements.”
Before structured firefighting methods emerged, basic tools like buckets and hand pumps were used to combat fires.
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“We formed bucket brigades where water was passed hand-to-hand to extinguish flames. As settlements grew, the need for structured firefighting became apparent,” Meyer said.
With rapid industrialisation and urbanisation in South Africa, firefighting became a profession.
“Fire brigades transitioned from volunteer groups to full-time, professional units equipped with better technology and training,” Meyer said.
“Training became more rigorous and standardised, with fire academies offering comprehensive courses in fire science, rescue operations, and advanced equipment.”
Marias highlighted the impact of modernisation on firefighting.
“The introduction of motorised fire engines revolutionised our response times and capacity to fight fires,” he said.
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“In the earlier years, fire engines were manual, and we needed to understand and maintain them ourselves. Today, with advanced technology, we have electrical engines, which require specialized maintenance.”
The development of improved firefighting equipment, such as high-pressure hoses, fire-resistant clothing, and breathing apparatuses, has significantly enhanced the safety and effectiveness of firefighters.
“In the past, we had minimal protection against fires. Now, safety is paramount,” shared Pretorius.
However, advancements come with challenges.
“Modern fire engines have a shorter lifespan, and if a button fails, a qualified person must repair it, which can be time-consuming and costly,” Pretorius explained.
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Reflecting on the profession’s evolution, Pretorius stated, “From humble beginnings with bucket brigades to sophisticated, modern fire services, the journey has been marked by continuous learning, adaptation, and community spirit.
“As we face future challenges, the fire services remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment from the ever-present threat of fire.”
