TZANEEN – Firefighters from across the country gathered in Tzaneen to celebrate the dedication, strength, and skills of first responders during International Firefighters’ Day.

The event, held at the Mopani Disaster Management Centre in early May, was designed to introduce various aspects of firefighting to the local community, including high-angle rescues, vehicle extrications, and water-based operations.

Participants also took part in the National Firefighters Challenge, where they competed in a series of demanding events that tested their skills and physical fitness.

Basani Shibambu, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Services in the Mopani District Municipality (MDM), spoke at the event, noting that, in recent years, MDM has experienced no fatalities among its firefighters. However, she emphasised the importance of post-incident trauma counselling for those in the field.

“We want to encourage all first responders to make use of our employee assistance programmes, which offer vital mental health support. The experiences you face on the job can be deeply distressing,” Shibambu said.

She referred to the tragic crash earlier this year on the R40 near Hoedspruit, which resulted in 14 deaths.

Read more: Hoedspruit R40 crash: One of three survivors dies

“You were the first to respond, and you witnessed the horrific scenes,” she said, urging the firefighters to prioritise post-incident mental health debriefing.

Also read: DNA confirms 11 victims in Hoedspruit R40 crash

Shibambu commended the firefighters for their quick and effective response.

She also expressed her support for the newly formed Tzaneen Emergency Support team, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing emergency services in the community.

“We want to sincerely thank all those volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to support our communities. Your commitment is invaluable,” Shibambu concluded.