A shack fire in the Denver Informal Settlement claimed the life of Lucy Manana when 60 shacks burned down on May 6.
Manana who was over 60 years old was living in Denver for the past 10 years.
“We are saddened by the passing of our aunt Lucy and the way she died,” said Nobuhle Dhladhla.
Manana was from Mpumalanga and came to Johannesburg for work.
The Cleveland SAPS communications officer, Captain Johan Jordaan, said an inquest has been opened.
The Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said more than 60 shacks were destroyed by the fire and more than 130 people were displaced.
“The fire is believed to have been caused by an unattended candle which was in use. Disaster management is conducting an assessment in the area regarding the damage and also facilitating relief for affected residents,” he said.
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He urged residents to be careful when using fire appliances.
“We are advising our residents, especially residents in our informal settlements, to look after all their heating devices like candles, paraffin stoves and to not leave them unattended to prevent fire incidents at homes this winter,” he said.
Shack fires are said to be a challenge and with the winter season coming, EMS will be conducting its winter campaign.
“We have started with our pre-winter fire safety campaign.
“We will be conducting these education tours in all seven regions of the city targeting our informal settlements,” said Mulaudzi.
EFF PR councillor Shaun Dlanjwa said what happened in Denver is sad and painful.
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“It’s always difficult to lose your belongings in a fire.
“The affected residents will need assistance in rebuilding and we will assist in getting sponsors to help rebuild their homes,” said Dlanjwa.
Different businesses have been donating to the affected residents and helping them to rebuild.
“I would like to thank disaster management and Gift of the Givers who bought groceries, sanitary pads and blankets. Albany Bakery donated 150 loaves of bread and Karizzma steel manufacturing company donated corrugated irons. We appreciate the assistance,” said Dlanjwa.
