Shocking shack fire statistics revealed

A total of 7 518 shacks have burnt down in Gauteng over the last three years according to a statement released by Jack Bloom, MPL (DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Health).

The figures was revealed by Gauteng Premier David Makhura in a written reply to questions asked in the Gauteng Legislature.

The incidents mostly occurred in Emfuleni (Vaal area), Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni.

“Shack fires not only causes trauma and loss of life, around 8 000 people lose their possessions yearly because of shack fires,” Bloom said.

The breakdown between 2012 and 2014 is as follows:

• Emfuleni: 2 316
• Johannesburg: 2 246
• Ekurhuleni: 1 538
• Tshwane: 982
• West Rand District: 319
• Midvaal: 64
• Lesedi: 53

According to Makhura, “Short term relief such as blankets and food are provided, as well as assistance in replacing identity documents”.

The fireball firefighting device is to be rolled out to all municipalities, to fight shack fires and the following initiatives by Gauteng Provincial Management Centre (GPDMC) will be implemented:

• Fire hydrants in the formalized informal settlements
• Creation of space between informal dwellings, including firebreaks.
• Smoke detectors given to each informal dwelling.

Bloom welcomes these initiatives but he feels instead of tents being provided, housing material should be provided by the GPDMC, to rebuild shacks, as it is done in Cape Town.

R500 000 has been allocated by the GPDMC in this financial year, to assists communities hit by shack fires, which is really measly according to Bloom.

Bloom appeals to Premier Makhura, “To give a higher priority to helping people rebuild their lives after terrible shack fires.”