Cape Town celebrates International Firefighters Day
Cape Town firefighters attend to a structural fire in Dunoon.
Image: Supplied
May 4 marks International Firefighters Day, and in Cape Town, the efforts of those wearing the uniform have not gone unnoticed.
In the past year (May 1, 2025 – April 29, 2026), the Fire and Rescue Service responded to 30 302 incidents.
It was an increase of 454 incidents compared to the same period the year before.
Vegetation fires (13 020), motor vehicle accidents (4 991), pedestrian accidents (2 120), informal residential fires (2 125) and formal residential fires (1 898) account for the bulk of responses.
"These statistics are staggering, but they also offer a clear view of the demands and pressures on the service," said Safety and Security mayco member, JP Smith.
"We are indebted to the frontline staff members, but also the support staff who are critical to the overall operations of the service. On International Firefighters Day, we pause to acknowledge their courage, determination and service."
The proposed capital budget for the Safety and Security Directorate in the 2026/27 financial year includes R20 million for fire station upgrades, including Brooklyn, Mfuleni and Constantia, as well as R3 million in initial investment on the construction of a fire station in Langa.
On 4 May 2026, the world commemorates International Firefighters Day.
Image: Supplied
In recent years, the Fire and Rescue Service has hosted an event that allows the public to get a closer look at the inner workings of the department.
This year is no exception – the public is invited to join in at the Wesfleur Sports Ground in Atlantis on Saturday, May 9, 2026 between 9:45am and 3pm, for a day of exhibitions, live displays, sport and games.
The stadium event will be preceded by a cavalcade through the streets of Atlantis, starting at 8:30am.
"This event is not to be missed, so do diarise it and bring the whole family along for a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Fire and Rescue Service," Smith said.