City engages locals on emergency response
"We will now be able to administer first aid kit, use a fire extinguisher and carry on evacuation plans promptly,” said Mojela.
Community members from various areas in the City of Ekurhuleni recently attended a Public Information, Education, and Relations (PIER) training session at the Germiston Fire Station.
The programme, aimed at teaching fire safety, CPR, and evacuation procedures, focused on equipping early childhood centres and child welfare organisations with essential emergency response skills.
The session, led by DEMS media liaison officer Eric Maloka, welcomed representatives from early childhood and youth centres in Leondale, Kempton Park, Benoni and Thembisa.
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PIER prioritises pre-incident preparedness, helping communities prevent emergencies and respond effectively when they occur.
Refiloe Makganye, a participant from Leondale, praised the programme for its practical approach.
“We learned about different fire extinguishers and how to use a fire blanket properly,” she explained.
“Having a first aid kit is also crucial. As caregivers, we must know how to handle situations like nosebleeds. This training equips us to safeguard the children in our care.”
Representatives from Kempton Park’s Smart Angels Day Care Centre, Philia Mojela and Nkhensani Valoyi, found the session invaluable, given their facility’s wooden structures.
“The fire safety tips are essential for us,” said Mojela. “The safety of our children is our top priority. This training will help us create safer environments and be better prepared to handle emergencies.”
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Mojela highlighted that they now feel confident in administering first aid, using fire extinguishers, and executing evacuation plans.
“Sharing this knowledge with colleagues will ensure everyone is equipped to respond without panic during an emergency,” she added.
While Maloka clarified that the courses do not provide formal certification, he reassured participants that the trainers are professional paramedics and firefighters with extensive experience.
“To further enhance safety, we urge residents to monitor all heat sources, especially alternative ones like gas and paraffin stoves,” Maloka advised.
“Education on these is crucial to prevent disasters.”
The PIER programme is part of Ekurhuleni’s proactive approach to building safer, more informed.
