There are currently no fully functional fire-fighting vehicles to service Estcourt and its surrounding areas, as of last week.
The Mercedes-Benz truck and Land Rover Rapid Intervention Vehicle that were being rented on a month-to-month basis to Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality; both have been returned to the service provider.
READ MORE HERE: A helping hand from the Umtshezi Fire Protection Association
It is alleged that this is due to a technical glitch which resulted in late payment, as well as the municipality determining that there is no longer a fire risk. It is further alleged that both vehicles were returned with substantial damage.
Locals fear that the fire department is going backwards into a futile state. Residents are also gravely concerned that in the event of a fire, with non-operational vehicles or none at all, there won’t be much the firefighters can do.
A fire-fighting unit can be made available when payment is received by the service provider.
In cases of emergencies, local firemen have to call on fire departments in Bergville, Mooi River or Ladysmith to assist.
Doing the above means added travel time to respond to the scene of an emergency, and this can result in major delays in putting out fires. Last week, both rental units were returned allegedly after the municipality concluded that there is no longer a fire risk.
The municipality has managed to bring its old unit back into service.A source who refused to be named has confirmed that the Dennis Fire Engine has a serious mechanical problem.
Weighing in on the matter, Umtshezi Fire Protection Association chairperson Warren Blaker said: “The Umtshezi Fire Protection Association is concerned, as the fire risk remains. We will continue to service our members until there no longer is a risk.”
READ: Core functions of the Umtshezi Fire Protection Association
For the period ending August, the bell excavator batteries payment was made and the machine was up and running.
While the bell 6×6 grader and bell 6×4 grader awaited payment, the Hino 6 cube tipper and the UD 6 cube tipper needed spares to be procured.
The Dennis Fire Engine was ready for payment, but the UD refuse compactor, UD skip loader and Toyota Yaris all had requisitions made to obtain the required spares.
Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality did not provided any comment.
NOW SEE: PHOTOS: Fire at textile factory in Mooi River
Click to receive news links via WhatsApp. Or for the latest news, visit our webpage or follow us on Facebook and Twitter
