A tragic shack fire claimed the lives of a 26-year-old woman and a two-year-old child in Diepsloot, Extension 1, on Tuesday. Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS) spokesperson Xolile Khumalo confirmed the devastating incident.
Khumalo explained that shack fires are a recurring issue throughout the year, with an increase in winter, although summer incidents are not uncommon.
“EMS firefighters responded to a fire in Diepsloot where, unfortunately, a two-year-old baby and a woman succumbed to fire-related injuries. The case has been handed over to the Diepsloot police for further investigation,” said Khumalo.
Authorities have yet to confirm the relationship between the deceased woman and the child.
### Precautionary Measures Highlighted
Khumalo urged residents to prioritize safety when using electrical appliances. “We continue to appeal to the residents of Johannesburg to switch off all electrical appliances after use,” she said.
In addition to the Diepsloot tragedy, another fire broke out on Monday afternoon at the Honey Dew informal settlement, destroying at least 11 shacks. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in this incident.
Khumalo emphasized, “The cause of both incidents is still undetermined. However, we implore residents to take necessary precautions and ensure that children are not left unattended.”
### Similar Incidents Across Gauteng
Fires have become a significant concern in informal settlements and urban areas. Just days before the Diepsloot fire, another blaze gutted a student accommodation building under renovation in Sunnyside, Tshwane.
The fire, reported on Rissik Street, destroyed eight rooms and two hallways. The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department responded promptly, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the flames until the early hours of Monday morning.
City of Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni provided updates, stating that the fire was reported to their Emergency Communication Centre. A fire engine from the Hatfield Fire Station was dispatched to the scene, where firefighters quickly established incident command and began aggressive firefighting operations to protect nearby buildings.
Mnguni confirmed, “Approximately eight rooms and two hallways were affected by the fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.”
### Calls for Vigilance
The increasing frequency of fires highlights the importance of fire safety in residential and informal settlement areas. EMS continues to stress the need for caution when using electrical appliances and urges residents to keep a watchful eye on their surroundings to prevent similar tragedies.
As investigations into these incidents continue, authorities are working to provide solutions to mitigate the risks of such devastating fires.