Residents learn the basics of firefighting training in Zandspruit
Residents hope that the event will aid in controlling the spread of fire in the area.
Residents of Zandspruit learn about the basics of firefighting.
This followed two recent fires that left families homeless. On May 14, the Cosmo City Fire Station of the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) held a community education response programme at Realeboga Crèche.
Safety educators from the fire station’s Public Information Education Relation (PIER) department provided two days of basic training to the residents.
According to Masego Maringa, a junior safety officer, knowing what to do when a fire starts is vital. “Sharing information such as what to do when the house is on fire and while waiting for the fire engine to arrive will aid the residents to be able to extinguish the fire.
“We urge parents to stop sending children to buy matches and paraffin as they are likely to play with them and start the fire.”
Lesterine Legodi, another safety educator, cautioned residents against using materials such as bleach and spirits to clean gas cylinders.
“It’s extremely dangerous because inhaling it damages your lungs.”
Legodi said that if a fire begins, they can extinguish it with soil, because it is the quickest way to stop the fire from spreading while waiting for the fire engine.
“The training was extremely helpful because many people use fire, and it will help us to reduce the burning of shacks in our community,” said Lerato Mpoko.
Another resident, Lethabo Mabogo, said she now understands what to do if a fire starts, thanks to the training.
Tips for good housekeeping:
- Do not overload electrical points.
- Store hazardous materials under lock and key in a safe compound away from the building.
- Mark and identify flammable liquids clearly in the proper containers and store them in a safe condition.
- Do not keep flammable liquids longer than necessary.
- Do not switch on any electrical equipment or generate sparks if you smell gas.
- Switch off all electrical appliances when not in use and isolate them from the main circuit.
- Make sure all electrical motors are clean and free of grime and dust.
- Service all electrical points, plugs, motors, etc.
- Check all electrical points, plugs, switches, and wiring from time to time.
- Renew electrical wires at the first site of wear on the outer covering.
To report a fire, you can contact the EMS on 112 or 10177.
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