Fire destroys three classrooms at Eldorado Park school

Three classrooms were destroyed at Lancea Vale Secondary School after a fire broke out on the afternoon of August 20.

The damaged classrooms were used to accommodate learners within the Grade Eight and Nine block.

According to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Spokesperson, Xolile Khumalo, no injuries were sustained during the incident.

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EMS firefighters responded to a fire incident after it was reported at 14:26. Fire inspectors are still conducting investigations to determine the cause of the fire.

“EMS continues to implore residents to take extra precautions when using electrical appliances or any other substances that may lead to fire incidents,” Khumalo said.

Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation MEC Matome Chiloane expressed concerns over the incident that resulted in significant damage to the classrooms.

Chiloane said preliminary reports indicate that the fire initially started in Room 81, located on the first floor of Block C.

He went on to say that because of how quickly the fire spread, the building’s structural stability is now under question.

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To determine whether it will be safe to resume teaching and learning at the impacted classroom block, firefighters will submit a report detailing the amount of the damage.

Chiloane confirmed that the police are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.

“It is indeed concerning that last week there was a stabbing incident of a learner by another learner at the same school. We will not tolerate violence or gangsterism perpetuated in and around our schools.

“In the same breath, we are closely monitoring the situation, and we are certain that learning and teaching will resume accordingly at the school,” he said.