Alberton Fire Station firefighters are eager to go an extra mile
Despite the risk that comes with their profession, firefighters of Alberton Fire Station are committed to forever be present in the moment of need.
Firefighters belonging to Alberton Fire Station have one common goal – a determination to putting the interests of the community first.
The Alberton Record spoke to four of the firefighters stationed in Alberton. Grant Gibson, Thandi Paulus, Agnes Seitlhobogeng and Helen Lekota said they are sharpening and harnessing their skills towards reaching the ultimate objective within fire and emergency services.
Gibson, who has worked as a firefighter since 1993, said: “I joined the service straight after matric and worked in Johannesburg before joining the Alberton Fire Station in 2000. Being a firefighter means to always be there when needed and to be able to assist locals.”
The group, which holds standard firefighting and rescue qualifications with some topping their skills with more achievements, live by expertise necessary for the running of services in the community.
According to Seitlhobogeng, who has worked in the service for seven years, their skills include communication, social competence, time management, courage and physical stamina.
The mother of three said their responsibility is to extinguish the fire, prevent fire damage and loss of life as well as serve the community as best as they can.
Shift manager Thandi Paulus, who holds 17 years of experience, said she started out as a reservist and over the years grew to be a shift commander and is now a shift manager.
Paulus said being in a male-dominated profession also comes with its shortcomings. However, she is resolute in working hard to provide much-needed services to the greater community.
Helen Lekota, who also holds 17 years of experience, said: “I have grown so much in this profession and shortly I aspire to educationally empower myself and hopefully secure a leadership role within the service.”
Ekurhuleni DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi urged the community to contact the City of Ekurhuleni’s control centre on 011 458 0911 to report any fire emergencies.
