By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department responded to an outbuilding fire incident in Sunnyside in Troye Street on the morning of 17 July 2024, where a rental storage facility made primarily of iron sheets was involved.
The facility consisted of several rooms in which a variety of items ranging from computers to even cars were stored.
“The fire was very intense due to the fire load in the storerooms, and this caused fire to spread from one room to another at a quick and abnormal pace.
“The outbuilding fire was reported to the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Call Centre (ECC) at about 06:14.
“The ECC immediately dispatched a fire truck from Hatfield Fire Station to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters began with firefighting operations and called for backup as the fire was spreading fast to the 40 storage rooms,” City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department spokesperson Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni said.
Mnguni said the ECC dispatched multiple additional firefighting resources from Central Fire Station to the incident. These included a ladder, a breathing apparatus unit for air supply and a district commander’s unit.
“The firefighters managed to contain the fire and prevented it from spreading to the surrounding buildings. The fire was extinguished at about 09:34 and no injuries were reported at this incident. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined,” said Mnguni.
Members of the public have been urged to be cautious during winter to ensure the safety and well-being of people, animals and property by observing the following precautionary measures:
• If there is any fire danger exposure to dwellings, like shacks or houses, vegetation or veld fires, dial the toll-free number 107 for emergencies.
• Burning charcoal produces large amounts of carbon monoxide, so do not leave it in the house when sleeping.
• Never use fuels that are not designed for your heating unit.
• Unapproved controlled burning must never be carried out (no controlled burning will be approved during this period).
• Never leave children unattended near a burning candle or fire.
• Make sure all candles are placed in safe candleholders.
• Never connect electricity illegally.
• Never overload electrical plugs.
• Never leave an imbawula or coal fire to burn overnight without supervision.
• Extinguish paraffin fires with sand or a fire extinguisher.
“The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department will continue to monitor updates by the South African Weather Service and issue further notices where necessary.
“To report any fire incident, please call 107 toll-free or alternatively call 012 358 6300/6400. Keep warm but be safe this winter,” concluded Mnguni.
