Palm Ridge toddler dies in suspected heater fire
An electrical heater is suspected to have caused the deadly house fire in Palm Ridge that claimed the life of an 11-month-old toddler.
An 11-month-old toddler tragically lost their life in a house fire in Palm Ridge Ext 4 on the morning of June 13.
According to the City of Ekurhuleni DEMS, firefighters from Station 1 in Palm Ridge responded to a distress call shortly after 09:00.
Upon arrival, they found community members already attempting to extinguish the fire using buckets of water and sand.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire started in the sitting room of an RDP house.
The suspected cause is an electrical heater, although the exact cause will be determined following a joint investigation by local fire safety officials and the SAPS.
Paramedics from the Gauteng Provincial Government Emergency Medical Services declared the toddler dead at the scene.
DEMS Media Liaison Officer Eric Maloka expressed his condolences to the family and urged residents to prioritise fire safety in their homes.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time. We urge residents to exercise caution when using heating and cooking appliances and to never leave them unattended,” said Maloka.
He further advised residents to switch off electrical appliances during power interruptions to reduce the risk of fires when electricity is restored.
The City of Ekurhuleni DEMS reminded residents that life-threatening emergencies and fires can be reported by calling 011 458 0911 or 112.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
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