Firefighters battle major blaze in Masiphumelele
Firefighters from the City’s Fire and Rescue Service battle a fierce blaze in Masiphumelele, as aerial support assists in containing the flames.
Image: file
The City’s Fire and Rescue Service is currently engaged in a fierce battle against a fire that has erupted in the Masiphumelele area.
Emergency crews responded to the alarm at approximately 3.15pm this afternoon, rapidly deploying resources from multiple fire stations across the city.
As of now, around 40 firefighters are on the ground, working diligently to contain the flames that are threatening both structures and surrounding vegetation.
Despite their dedication, the situation remains precarious. The prevailing weather conditions, which include strong winds and dry air, are complicating the firefighting efforts, creating a challenging environment for the brave men and women trying to bring the situation under control.
In an effort to combat the advancing fire, three aerial firefighting helicopters have joined the operation, commencing water bombing operations around 4.50pm.
The Incident Management Team (IMT) is currently dividing the impacted area into three distinct divisions to ensure that all efforts are streamlined and effective.
Amid the intensity of the blaze, one firefighter has unfortunately sustained a suspected wrist fracture.
The injured personnel have since been transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment, while no additional injuries have been reported at this time.
City's Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, confirmed that operations are ongoing and urged citizens to remain vigilant as updates will be provided once the extent of the fire and its impact have been evaluated.
"One firefighter sustained a suspected wrist fracture and has been transported to a nearby medical facility. No other injuries have been reported," he said.
"The focus right now is on firefighting efforts – updates will follow once the scale and impact of the fire has been determined."
Carelse said this is a developing situation, but indications are that both structures and vegetation/reeds are alight.
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