Volunteer firefighters needed
“Not everyone has it in them to become a firefighter, but if you feel that adrenaline rush when you see a fire and are willing to help your fellow man in need, then you should become part of our firefighting team.”
Volunteer firefighters are needed to help combat fires this season.
The Sinoville Firefighters Association (SBBV) in the north of Pretoria have called on courageous men and women to join their local firefighting organisations.
SBBV spokesperson Zenobia Loock-du Plessis said firefighters were needed more than ever during winter.
“This is the high-risk fire season and we really could use more manpower to combat fires in and around our community,” she said.
This month, fires have wreaked havoc in Pretoria. The most recent, last Friday, a fire claimed a family home in Claremont, Pretoria West.
“We usually have dry, windy winters, which is the ideal weather for fires to spread quickly,” said Loock-du Plessis.
“A small spark from an open fire at a braai or a cigarette bud can cause a veld fire, which can quickly spread to homes and cause massive damage.”
Loock-du Plessis says a swift response from firefighters can mean the difference between life and death.
“Not everyone has it in them to become a firefighter, but if you feel that adrenaline rush when you see a fire and are willing to help your fellow man in need, then you should become part of our firefighting team.”
Loock-du Plessis said there were also other ways people could assist the SBBV.
Interested individuals can visit their webpage at www.sbbv.co.za for more information.
“We have to remind people, that we are a non-profit organisation. Our volunteers do not receive compensation, but they do get training from accredited associations and trainers.”
Not all people can be superheroes, but Loock-du Plessis said community members can help their local firefighting heroes by doing their part to prevent fires.
“There are a lot of safety precautions one can take at home,” she said.
“During the cold season, people are using a lot more gas products like gas stoves and gas heaters to save on electricity. When using gas appliances, it is very important to have enough ventilation inside the house.
“Leaking gas is not only a big fire risk, but is toxic and can kill people. So always ensure that gas bottles are properly closed.”
Loock-du Plessis said electric blankets were another safety risk.
“Sometimes people can be forgetful and leave their electric blankets on when they leave their homes. Short-circuiting electric appliances are one of the many causes for fires at home.”
Burning garden refuse was another major concern for the SBBV.
“Illegal dumping of garden waste in open fields and the intentional starting of fires to burn garden waste remain a problem,” said Loock-du Plessis.
“People purposefully setting fires, especially near mountain ranges, will be massively fined or even arrested.”
Permits to burn refuse or garden waste could however be obtained through the SBBV, by visiting their website.
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