Fire marshals participate in a training workshop held in Germiston.  

The City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services division hosted a basic first aid and firefighting training session for the first batch of community safety marshals, recently.

The programme is run by the Public Information Education and Relations (PIER).

“The programme will be part of the city’s plan to eliminate the high rise of crime, gender-based violence and others within our areas,” said DEMS communications officer Eric Maloka.

“In case of any life threatening incident, the marshals would be able to render basic first aid to victims by applying the three principles of emergency care.

“The principles are: Preserving life by quick assessment of the patient and quickly using the right numbers to get access to ambulance services.

“Promoting recovery of the patient by calming and reassuring the patient and controlling any life threatening bleeding.

“Preventing and avoiding further injuries to patients by using right equipment.

“In case of any fire related incidents they would be able to identify dangers, know how to activate the fire department promptly and evacuate everyone to safety while awaiting arrival of firefighters,” said Maloka.

Khomotjo Mangwale, a trainee, said she learnt plenty about fire safety and fire prevention.

“Firefighting needs sharp minds and diligence to save lives and protect infrastructures.

“It’s a career I have now thought of pursuing. I now know the pros and cons of an emergency. It is also important to assess the injuries of a person before you move them to avoid further complications or internal injuries.

“These are lessons which can be taught to residents living in informal settlements. As winter is approaching we all need to be safe and avoid unnecessary fires, to save lives and infrastructure,” said Mangwele.

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