Tshwane is worried about residents harassing and assaulting Emergency Services Department (ESD) workers while carrying out their duties.
This has led to the metro police and private security accompanying the workers to ensure their safety is not compromised.
Community Safety MMC Grandi Theunissen said firefighters faced an angry community that nearly assaulted them while attending to a fire in the west of Pretoria on July 28.
“I am very thankful that the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) and private security companies arrived in time to bring the situation under control and allow the firefighters to execute their duties without having to look over their shoulders.”
Theunissen worries that it is the entire community that suffers when the ESD’s ability to to save lives, protect property and ensure the safety of all residents as per their mandate, is compromised by violence.
He said such actions not only delay emergency response times but also divert critical resources away from those in need.
“On behalf of the coalition government in Tshwane, I therefore unequivocally condemn this reprehensible behaviour.
“Attacking or threatening emergency responders is not only unlawful but also morally indefensible.
“These men and women risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and any act of violence against them is an attack on the safety and well-being of everyone in Tshwane.”
He urges all citizens to respect and support emergency services personnel, recognising the essential and dangerous work they do.
“We will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation against our emergency personnel.
“I plead with communities, law enforcement and other stakeholders to create a safer environment for everyone and ensure that our emergency services can carry out their life-saving work without fear.”
Photo: supplied
Emergency services spokesperson Lindsay Mnguni urges members of the public to be cautious during winter to ensure the safety and well-being of people, animals and property by observing the following measures:
• If there is any fire danger exposure to dwellings, like shacks or houses, vegetation or veld fires, dial the toll-free number 107 for emergencies.
• Burning charcoal produces large amounts of carbon monoxide, so do not leave it burning in the house when sleeping.
• Never use fuels not designed for your heating unit.
• Unapproved controlled burning must never be carried out (no controlled burning will be approved during this period).
• Never leave children unattended near a burning candle or fire.
• Make sure all candles are placed in safe candleholders.
• Never connect electricity illegally.
• Never overload electrical plugs.
• Never leave an imbawula or coal fire to burn overnight without supervision.
• Extinguish paraffin fires with sand or a fire extinguisher.
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