A devastating shack fire broke out in Alra Park Ext 3 on June 29. Unfortunately, two people died and a child was injured.
According to DEMS media liaison officer William Ntladi, firefighters responded swiftly to the scene, where they found a shack fully engulfed in flames. Community members were already attempting to douse the fire when emergency teams arrived.
“Once the flames were extinguished, a search and recovery operation began due to fears that individuals may have been trapped inside,” said Ntladi.
“The bodies of a 22-year-old man and a two-year-old child were found in the remains. The Gauteng Medical Services declared both victims deceased at the scene.
“An eight-year-old child escaped with minor burns and was taken to the Pholosong Hospital for medical treatment.
“Our fire safety officers, in collaboration with the SAPS, are investigating the cause of the blaze,” explained Ntladi.
The DEMS’ Eric Maloka urged residents to exercise extreme caution when using heating devices – electrical heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves, candles – during winter and not to leave them unattended.
All three regional fire stations around the city are on high alert to ensure they effectively respond to all emergencies that might occur.
For life-threatening emergencies, the public can call the city on these numbers:• 011 458 0911 (charged at normal call rates);
• 112 (free from any cellphone);
• Use the Gauteng e-panic app.
ALSO CHECK: DJ Leo Brown rises with beats and purpose
ALSO CHECK: Kwa-Thema Clinic launches adolescent youth-friendly services to support local youth
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here.