For the past week, residents have not been able to get in contact with municipal emergency services through landline numbers, as these numbers have been out of service.

Members of the public contacted the Herald last week regarding their inability to reach the available emergency services numbers, which would disconnect when called.

The Herald also phoned numerous listed landlines, such as 018 293 1111 (Fire Department) and relevant extensions, but received no answer.

Following an enquiry, J.B. Marks Municipality spokesperson Jeanette Tshite confirmed that all previously used municipal emergency contact numbers are “out of service and should not be used”.

The municipality issued a press release today (20 January) stating that one dedicated emergency contact number will be used for all urgent emergencies: 078 803 1570.

“Residents are requested to call the above number for all urgent emergencies, including but not limited to house fires, flooding incidents and road accidents,” added Tshite.

The same number (078 803 1570) can also be used for instant messaging via WhatsApp to report service-related issues such as water leakages, service faults, electricity supply problems and related matters.

The municipality urged all residents to save the new number to ensure prompt reporting and response.

“The JB Marks Local Municipality apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the cooperation of the community as we work to ensure effective emergency response and service delivery,” Tshite concluded.