KZN disaster teams deployed after deadly eThekwini informal settlement fire
The department warned that the sharp drop in winter temperatures has increased the use of candles, paraffin stoves and braziers significantly raising the risk of fires.
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi has deployed provincial disaster management teams to an informal settlement in eThekwini following a devastating fire that claimed one life and left dozens homeless on Friday evening.
The blaze tore through Ward 110, destroying 44 structures and partially damaging four others. A total of 87 people were affected, with 81 left homeless.
Buthelezi said emergency teams are on the ground coordinating relief efforts alongside eThekwini Disaster Management, which has erected a temporary marquee shelter and is distributing food, blankets and mattresses to affected residents.
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The MEC also announced that COGTA is accelerating the rollout of specialised smoke alarms across high-density informal settlements as part of efforts to reduce deadly winter fires.
The department warned that the sharp drop in winter temperatures has increased the use of candles, paraffin stoves and braziers (izimbawula), significantly raising the risk of fires in densely populated informal settlements.
The smoke alarms are designed to provide residents with an early warning, giving them precious seconds to evacuate before flames spread.
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“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our teams are on the ground coordinating support for those affected by this tragic incident,” said Buthelezi.
