15 shacks burn down
GEORGE GOCH – Last week another fire destroyed 15 shacks in George Goch informal settlement.
Following a recent fire which started in the early hours of the morning in George Goch informal settlement, 15 shacks have been destroyed.
“The fire started at about 4am and no injuries were reported,” said Roberts Malaudzi, spokesperson for Emergency Management Services. He added that the cause of the fire has not yet been established, however, allegations suggest electrical wires.
“We would like to urge residents not to leave paraffin stoves and candles unattended while in use. We also want to encourage them to buy regulated paraffin stoves from reputable dealers and stoves which are regulated by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications.”
He further urged residents to use candle safety jars.
Ward 65 councillor, Lindani Zulu has asked residents within the informal settlement to help those affected through this difficult time. “We would like to see residents helping each other, especially the vulnerable people. Also, with children going back to school, they now don’t have uniforms.”
Emergency Management Services provided safety tips:
- Parents need to teach their children at a young age that fire can be dangerous and matches should not be played with.
- Be careful when using a primus stove and again, never leave it unattended.
- When using gas appliances, make sure there are no gas leaks in the connection and that the gas cylinder is in a good condition. Always use a gas appliance in a well-ventilated area.
- Smoking can also be hazardous and no one should smoke in bed.
- Candles are a big fire hazard. When children use candles, it should be under parental or adult supervision. Candles also need to be put in proper holders to prevent them from falling over and setting fire to something.
Details: Councillor Lindani Zulu 072 251 6142; Fire and Emergency Management Services 011 375 5911 or 10177.
Read: Fire destroys four shacks
Add us on Whatsapp for the latest news by adding 079 4395 345 to your contact list and just send your name to us so we can save your number. Click here to find out more about our Whatsapp policy.
