PINETOWN Fire Station has 16 devoted fireman, and Kim Ford is one of them.
Ford (50), joined the fire department in 1984. One of his friends, who also joined the station, encouraged him to join the fire department after Kim had returned from serving in the army.
“I was in particularly good shape from my time in the army, and therefore decided to take my friend’s advice and sign up,” said Ford.
Ford was stationed in Durban Central for 15 years, then went to the south coast before transferring to Pinetown/Westville (Western regions).
Ford said his experience, skills and knowledge acquired over the years, has set his mind to prevent fires, save lives and protect properties.
“There’s so many fires that I’ve fought over the years and they all had different challenges. What keeps me focused is knowing that I have the ability to save a life,” said Ford.
Ford has kept fit by training every day – running, weightlifting and swimming is his daily exercise.
Besides being fit on the field, Ford also proved he’s more than just muscle.
He recently achieved the highest mark in the national fire safety exams.
Divisional commander for the Pinetown Fire Department, Dennis Govender, said Ford has portrayed a passion for his job over the years, and his experience is definitely a gain for the station.
Twenty-one trainees who completed the recent fireman learnership programme offered by eThekwini Municipality early this year, have been assigned to the Western region station. Govender said that these men will have the opportunity to apply for jobs as firemen for a fire station that will be opening at Cato Ridge soon.
To report a fire, contact the Fire Department and Metro Police on 031 361 0000.
