Simmer and Jack Landfill Site was again on fire for the second time in three months when firefighters battled the blaze for six days.

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The City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services received a call on July 23 at 19:00.

On arrival it was found to be the dumping site which was burning.

William Ntladi, DEMS media liaison officer said Primrose Fire Station attended the call and fire suppression was initiated to bring it under control.

“Due to it’s magnitude, backup from Bedfordview and Edenvale fire stations was activated.

“Water as an extinguishing agent was connected from a fire hydrant for sustainable supply throughout the entire operations,” said Ntladi.

“A total of 15 firefighters were in attendance. Due to size and magnitude of the blaze, the entire operation lasted till July 27 at 17:30. F

“Firefighting personnel had to swap shifts till the operation was over,” he said.

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“The cause of the fire is undetermined and no casualties recorded on scene. Fires in such instances are caused by many factors,” said Ntladi.

“Burning of grass outside the perimeter fencing can spread rapidly towards the dumping site well encumbered with combustibles and in that regard, the entire site has the potential to burn in entirety.”

“Members of the public are urged to be vigilant enough when disposing their waste as well.

“It shouldn’t be hot ash or an attempt to burn the rubble on site.

“The smokers must be alert as well not to throw lit cigarette butts haphazardly around as that is a potential hazard to start a fire,” said Ntladi.