Emergency services in Johannesburg have reported a fire incident at an apartment block in Hillbrow. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported as firefighters promptly responded to the scene on the corner of Van der Merwe and Klein streets on Saturday afternoon.
This incident adds to a series of recent fires in the Joburg CBD, highlighting the need for heightened safety measures and vigilance.
Just a few days ago, EMS teams battled a fire that tore through the South African Revenue Service (Sars) building in Marshalltown, resulting in several street closures.
In addition, a tragic fire last month in the Usindiso Building in Albert Street claimed the lives of 77 people and left more than 80 injured. Shortly after this devastating incident, another building on Delvers Street was engulfed in flames.
Nana Radebe, spokesperson for the Johannesburg Emergency Management Services, revealed that an unattended stove was the cause of the latest fire. She emphasized the importance of residents taking care of their appliances and never leaving them unattended.
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Providing further details about the incident, Radebe stated, “Yesterday, just after 16:00, we received a call about a structural fire in Hillbrow. On arrival, we found a two-bedroom flat that had caught fire. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and everyone managed to be evacuated. The fire was contained to one apartment, and the building remains open for use.”
JUST IN: Another fire broke out in the Johannesburg CBD opposite the Hillbrow police station. Authorities have been called to help put out the fire. pic.twitter.com/rdq3YFtHIc
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The recent spate of fires in Johannesburg serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and prevention. It is crucial for residents to be proactive in safeguarding their homes and communities. Here are some key fire safety tips:
- Never leave cooking appliances unattended. Ensure that stoves, ovens, and other cooking equipment are turned off after use.
- Regularly inspect and maintain electrical wiring to prevent electrical fires. Faulty wiring can pose a significant fire hazard.
- Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and regularly test them to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Have a fire escape plan in place. Make sure all family members are aware of the evacuation routes and practice them regularly.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources. Store items such as gasoline, paint thinners, and cleaning agents in a cool and well-ventilated area.
By following these simple yet crucial fire safety measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of devastating fire incidents. Let us all work together to create safer communities and protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of fire.
