07 May 2024

While fire fighters are hailed for their bravery and heroism, the most effective way to mitigate the devastation brought by fires is through effective prevention measures, says the Mayor of Selebi Phikwe Mr Lucas Modimana.

Addressing fire fighters during commemoration of International Fire Fighters Day in Selebi Phikwe on Friday, Mr Modimana said prevention constituted the cornerstone of fire safety by identifying and addressing fire hazards before escalating.

Mr Modimana said fight fighters should save lives, preserve property and safeguard the community.

“This would not only reduce the frequency and severity of fires but also lessened the burden placed on firefighters,” he said.

He emphasised that education played a pivotal role in fire prevention by imparting knowledge on fire hazards, safety protocols and emergency procedures and effective response in the event of emergency.

“Through educational initiatives targeting people of all ages we can instill a sense of responsibility and accountability for fire safety within our communities,” he said.

Mr Modimana said technology offered invaluable tools for fire prevention from advanced fire detection and suppression systems, innovative building materials and designs and other technological advancements that enhance the fire fighters’ ability to prevent fires.

He encouraged fire fighters to honour the day by re-affirming their commitment to prioritising firefighting as a fundamental pillar of safety and wellbeing.

Mr Modimana urged them to embrace the ethos of fire prevention rather than firefighting.

Acting Fire Controller of Fire Services, Ms Thapelo Segotso, honoured all the fire fighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Ms Segotso said firefighting was a unique career that conform to a variety of duties that go beyond the primary duties of firefighting to rescue and save lives.

“We commit ourselves to continue saving lives and protecting our community’s property against fires,” she said.

Ms Segotso pleaded with the community to give firefighters support by following fire safety guidelines adding that by doing so they would be protecting themselves from danger that could lead to loss of lives or property.

She also emphasised on effective environmental upkeep, urging the community to avoid littering and keeping hazardous material such as petrol and cooking gas cylinders inside their houses.

Kgosi Mark Thipe of Ikageleng ward urged the Fire Department to continue educating the community on fire safety measures to help prevent lives and property. Ends