Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Herald Reporter
NORTON Town Council has confirmed that it is engaging the City of Harare in negotiations to facilitate the return of its fire tender, which is essential for responding to fire incidents within the town.
The council’s human resources manager, Mr John Chishakwe, explained that the fire tender is presently in Harare, where it is being used for firefighter training.
“Sometime last year, Norton Town Council recruited 12 firefighters who were sent to Harare for training,” he said.
“One of the requirements for the training programme was that the council avails its fire tender for practical sessions, as it is the equipment that the trainees are expected to use.
“However, in recent months, we have experienced several fire incidents. This has presented significant challenges, as we have had to rely on the City of Harare Fire Brigade.
“By the time they arrive, the fires would often have intensified and become difficult to control. We are now nearing the completion of the training programme and are awaiting the official pass-out date, which we anticipate will be announced within the next two weeks.
“Once the firefighters graduate, the fire tender will be returned to Norton. Notwithstanding this, Council is actively engaging the City of Harare to have the fire tender returned earlier than the pass-out date, in light of the increasing number of fire incidents being recorded.”
Mr Chishakwe further indicated that Norton recorded three fire incidents during the period when the fire tender was away.
“In such cases, we have relied on the City of Harare for assistance. While they have responded to our calls, the distance inevitably results in delays, and by the time they arrive, the fire would, in most instances, have already engulfed the affected property,” he said.
“It is therefore critical and advantageous for Council to have its fire tender returned as soon as possible to ensure timely response to emergencies.”
