Three injured in a gas explosion at a restaurant

A gas explosion occurred at the Simply Divine Vegetarian restaurant in Blairgowrie on 24 January. City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) responded and transported three people to local hospitals: two for burns and one for smoke inhalation.

Resident Krishen Naiker was on scene. He explained that a gas cylinder was being installed in the restaurant when it started leaking gas. He does not know what caused it, but a large explosion ensued, burning his friend. One man suffered second degree burns on his legs and torso, while another man suffered first degree burns on his legs. A third man suffered smoke inhalation.

Dave Skinz, the manager of the store next door, DJ Mix Club, said, “I heard a pop and a hiss. Then I saw fire through our ceiling. I evacuated everyone out my store.” Naiker phoned EMS. “EMS were quick,” he said. “They took 10 minutes.” Both witnesses said that they think the injured would recover well.

Firefighters on scene were unwilling to speak to the media but questions have been sent to EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi, and comment is awaited.

Details: City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services 112.