Rietvlei Zoo Farm fire: Farm House Restaurant and Bar gutted, gas cylinders removed
DEMS confirmed no casualties were recorded as firefighters battled the fire and removed several gas cylinders from the structure.
A fire broke out at Rietvlei Zoo Farm on Tuesday morning (August 26), destroying the double-storey metal container Farm House Restaurant and Bar.
DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi confirmed that both the top and bottom sections of the structure sustained extensive damage, including the inner contents.
@albertonrecordDisaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) spokesperson William Ntladi confirmed they received a call at around 7:10 alerting them to the blaze.♬ original sound – Alberton Record
The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) Life-Threatening Call Centre received the fire call at 07:10.
Ntladi said firefighting teams from Alberton, Thokoza, and Palm Ridge swiftly responded to the corner of Swartkoppies and Overbury roads outside Alberton.
Alberton firefighters arrived first, followed shortly by the Thokoza and Palm Ridge crews.
“Two water tankers, one industrial pumper, and one rescue tender from CoE were deployed, while City of Johannesburg crews also joined with two industrial fire pumpers,” Ntladi said.
@albertonrecordNtladi said the upper level of the double-story entertainment area was the part most affected.♬ original sound – Alberton Record
During the operation, firefighters removed several liquefied petroleum gas cylinders from the structure before they could ignite.
In total, seven 48kg cylinders and eight 9kg cylinders were taken out for safety, as they posed a significant risk if caught alight.
@albertonrecordThick smoke from the early morning fire led to the temporary closure of a nearby road while firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
No casualties were reported.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined and is under investigation.
WATCH: Fire breaks out at Rietvlei Zoo Farm entertainment area
