Man (26) dies trying to put out shack fire in eMbalenhle
Residents want training on how to extinguish shack fires.
Tinyiko Vilankulu (26) died in a shack fire in Ext 21, eMbalenhle, on Sunday morning, September 18.
Community members said they noticed smoke billowing from Vilankulu’s shack, and when they investigated, they saw the shack engulfed in flames.
Residents tried to extinguish the fire but it was too late. Besides Vilankulu’s death, the Ndaba family’s home and all their belongings were destroyed.
Thabang Moitsi, one of the residents, said the community needs to be trained on how to extinguish a fire because the firefighters are sometimes too late on a scene.
“We need to be provided with the knowledge and equipment to put out a fire in times such as these.
“The number of people who lost their lives here in eMbalenhle because of fire is shocking. That shows something is lacking,” said Moitsi.
According to him, residents face many challenges that expose them to fire hazards, especially when they have to use gas or fuel stoves during electricity outages.
“In this latest shack fire, Tinyiko died while trying to extinguish the fire. Without knowledge of what to do when a fire broke out, he tried to extinguish it alone,” said Moitsi.
Lucky Mthombeni (24) died in a shack fire in Ext 14, eMbalenhle, in June, while Mandla Sibeko (51) was also burned beyond recognition in a shack fire in Ext 15 in July.
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Community members alleged that all these death emanates from the electricity outages in eMbalelenhle. Ward 13 councillor, Calvin Makhado, was on the scene on Sunday morning.
He asked the community to help the Ndaba family to bury Vilankulu. The family also needs building materials to rebuild their home.
Constable Busi Mthethwa, eMbalenhle police spokesperson, said an inquest docket has been opened.
Safety tips to prevent fires:
• Never leave children alone with burning candles, cooking stoves and braisers.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Never leave candles, cooking stoves and heaters unattended.
• Do not connect electricity illegally and avoid overloading of plugs.
• Disconnect all electric appliances during load-shedding.
• Smoking in bed is dangerous.
.• Make firebreaks and keep your yards clean and weed-free.
• Prevent veld fires, do not discard cigarette buds.
• If a fire breaks out, warn people in your home to get out.
How to get out of a house that is on fire:
• Crawl low under the smoke and if your clothes catch on fire, you must not run. Instead, stop, drop and roll.
• Have more than one escape door in your home where possible.
• Dial 107 (landline) & 112 (Cellphone) 017 620 6290.
