A tragic shack fire in the early hours of Sunday morning has claimed two lives in Nigel, Ekurhuleni, including that of a two-year-old child. The victims were burned beyond recognition and declared dead at the scene after their remains were discovered in the charred debris.
The fire broke out before dawn, catching the family off guard while they were asleep. An eight-year-old child managed to escape the shack fire with minor burn injuries and was rushed to Pholosong Hospital for medical attention.
Firefighters arrive at the shack fire
Ekurhuleni Emergency Services responded to the call and found the shack on fire. Community members had already started attempting to extinguish the fire using buckets of water.
Firefighters quickly controlled the fire and initiated a search and recovery operation.
The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, but early indications point to a heating device being the possible source.
Winter caution urged
As temperatures continue to drop, officials have warned residents to be extra cautious when using heating and lighting appliances in informal settlements.
“Communities are reminded to use heating appliances with caution during this winter as many of these incidents can be avoided by making sure that all this heating and lighting devices are attended to when in use,” said Maswati Ndluli, spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni’s Emergency Management Services.
Incidents like this are a recurring concern during winter in Gauteng, where illegal electricity connections and unsafe heating methods frequently result in deadly fires.
Emergency services have urged residents never to leave heaters, candles, or open flames unattended and to install smoke detectors where possible, even in informal structures.
How can communities better prevent such tragedies during the harsh winter?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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