Over the past four months, from October to January, Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service has faced one of its most challenging periods in the last four years. Responding to a staggering 13,087 incidents, the service has demonstrated remarkable resilience and efficiency. Notably, 55% of these incidents were vegetation fires, underscoring the significant threat that natural fires pose to the region.
The statistics reveal a concerning trend, with a year-on-year increase of 12% in overall incidents, which include fires, rescues, and other special service calls like motor vehicle accidents and trauma cases. Vegetation fires alone saw a 19% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, highlighting an upward trend over the past three years.
Alderman JP Smith, the Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, praised the Fire and Rescue Service’s capabilities and the collaborative efforts with other agencies, including the Table Mountain National Parks, NCC, and the Volunteer Wildfire Services. He also highlighted the importance of mutual support agreements with neighboring municipalities, which have proven essential in managing the increased fire activity.
Despite the surge in vegetation fires, there has been a slight decrease in residential fires, both informal and formal, compared to the previous year. However, these numbers are still higher than those recorded between October 2020 and January 2021. Alderman Smith expressed concern over structural fires, attributing the increase to factors such as load-shedding, illegal electricity connections, and human error. He emphasized the city’s commitment to fire safety education and the need for residents to take proactive steps to reduce fire risks.
Cape Town boasts 32 fire stations, with recent additions at Sir Lowry’s Pass and Kommetjie Road, and plans for a new station in Langa are underway. The Fire & Rescue Service is well-equipped, with over 200 operational vehicles, including fire engines, water tenders, rescue units, aerial appliances, and watercraft. With at least 240 firefighters on duty daily, the service is prepared to tackle any emergency.
The recent statistics not only highlight the challenges faced by Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service but also underscore the dedication and preparedness of the firefighters and supporting agencies. As they continue to protect the community and manage the increasing number of fire incidents, their efforts remain crucial in safeguarding the city and its residents.
