Chronicle Editor
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
PROPERTY worth over ZiG500 000 has been lost in Bulawayo this year due to fires caused by lit and unattended candles, with the Fire Brigade urging residents to switch to affordable solar lights.
From January to December 2024, the Bulawayo Fire Brigade attended to six incidents of candle-induced property fires, resulting in damage worth a total of ZiG567 780, according to the city’s Chief Fire Officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo.
“From January 2024 to December 2024, the Brigade attended to six property fires involving candles, with a total loss of ZiG567 780,” said Mr Moyo.
Mr Moyo was speaking after a fire on Monday evening in New Lobengula, where a lit and unattended candle destroyed property worth ZiG100 000. Four people who were asleep at the time were hospitalised with burns and smoke inhalation.
The fire brigade received a distress call at 10:45 pm. Upon arrival, they found a two-roomed semi-detached private house, measuring 10m x 4m and built of bricks under asbestos sheets, engulfed in flames. Smoke was emanating from shattered asbestos roofing and burned wooden doors. Investigations revealed that the fire was caused by an unattended candle.
“There was load shedding in the area, so they were using candles. These days, we have solar lights that are more user-friendly. We need to encourage the community to embrace modern, safer technology. In terms of property fires, candles have become a more common cause than paraffin in recent times,” said Mr Moyo.
The Fire Brigade has reiterated its call for residents to adopt safer lighting solutions to prevent further loss of life and property.
Online Reporter