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In August 2024, the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department was called to action twice, successfully handling two significant fire incidents within a few days of each other.

On the morning of August 17th, 2024, a transformer fire erupted at the Njala Substation in Moreleta Park, following an explosion of a 275 kV transformer. The incident, reported at 08:45, saw a swift response from the Tshwane Emergency Call Centre, which dispatched firefighting units from Erasmuskloof, Silverton, and Mamelodi Fire Stations. Upon arrival, firefighters found the transformer engulfed in flames, with a large plume of black smoke billowing into the sky. Precautionary measures were immediately taken, including isolating the power supply to prevent further hazards. After a coordinated effort, the fire was extinguished by 10:47, with no injuries reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Just days later, on August 21st, 2024, another emergency unfolded in Pretoria West, where a gas pipeline explosion led to a massive fire on Carl Street. The fire, initially detected by the smell of gas, was reported at 11:48. Upon receiving numerous calls from concerned residents, the Emergency Call Centre deployed firefighting units from multiple stations, including Philip Nel Park, Central (Bosman), Innesdale, Hatfield, Atteridgeville, Silverton, Centurion, and Rosslyn.

Upon arrival, the firefighters were confronted with a blazing underground gas pipeline and an outbuilding structure also alight. While the outbuilding fire was quickly extinguished to prevent it from spreading to nearby houses, the gas pipeline fire was strategically allowed to burn out under controlled conditions. Evacuations were ordered within a 500-meter radius as a safety precaution. Technicians from Sasol and Afrox gas companies were on the scene to manage the situation, ensuring the safe shutdown of gas supply valves. By 17:31, the fire had burned out, and evacuated residents were allowed to return home. Remarkably, no injuries were reported in this incident either, though the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

These incidents underscore the quick response and effective coordination of the City of Tshwane Emergency Services, which prevented potentially catastrophic outcomes. The department continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and adhere to safety precautions, especially during the winter months, to safeguard lives and property.

Fires can start through various causes, typically categorized into the following:

1. Electrical Faults:
   • Short Circuits: When electrical wiring or devices malfunction, they can produce excessive heat, sparking a fire.
   • Overloaded Circuits: Plugging too many devices into an outlet or circuit can cause overheating, potentially leading to a fire.
2. Heat Sources:
   • Open Flames: Candles, matches, lighters, and stoves can easily ignite nearby flammable materials.
   • Heating Equipment: Heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces can start fires if not properly maintained or if placed too close to flammable objects.
3. Chemical Reactions:
   • Combustible Materials: Certain chemicals or materials can spontaneously ignite if they react with air, water, or other substances.
   • Improper Storage: Flammable liquids like gasoline or cleaning agents can ignite if stored near heat sources.
4. Mechanical Causes:
   • Friction: Machinery or tools can generate heat through friction, which might ignite flammable materials.
   • Engine Overheating: Overheated engines in vehicles or machinery can cause fires.
5. Human Error:
   • Unattended Cooking: Leaving stoves or ovens unattended is a leading cause of home fires.
   • Smoking: Cigarettes, cigars, or pipes can cause fires if not properly extinguished.
   • Improper Disposal: Disposing of hot ashes, embers, or chemicals carelessly can ignite fires.
6. Arson:
   • Intentional Ignition: Fires set deliberately by individuals with the intent to cause damage.
7. Environmental Causes:
   • Lightning: Lightning strikes can ignite dry vegetation or structures.
   • Natural Gas Leaks: Gas leaks can lead to explosions and subsequent fires if ignited by a spark or open flame.
8. Spontaneous Combustion:
   • Decomposing Materials: Some organic materials, like compost or hay, can build up heat internally and ignite spontaneously.
9. Faulty Appliances:
   • Defective Products: Malfunctioning appliances, such as toasters or space heaters, can overheat and catch fire.

Understanding these potential causes is crucial for fire prevention and safety.

For Emergency Reporting:

• Toll-Free Number: 107
• Alternative Numbers: 012 358 6300/6400