Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
A BULAWAYO resident has applauded the city’s Fire Brigade for its swift response and professionalism after firefighters saved her thatched house from being destroyed by a fire in Burnside.
The resident, described as a well-known professional in the city, lost a carport after an ember from a nearby bushfire landed on its thatched roof.
However, the quick intervention by the Bulawayo Fire Brigade prevented the flames from spreading to the main house.
In a message of appreciation to Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart, the resident said she was grateful to the firefighters for their rapid response and dedication.
“I have just received this message from a City of Bulawayo resident — a well-known professional in our city,” said Cllr Coltart before sharing the resident’s account.
“Please would you extend my appreciation to the Bulawayo Fire Brigade for attending to a fire at my thatched property in Burnside. I lost the carport but, more importantly, they saved the main house.”
The resident said an ember from an adjacent bushfire had found its way onto the roof of the carport, triggering the blaze.
She said firefighters arrived within minutes of being called and immediately deployed their teams strategically to contain the fire while protecting the main house.
“They were absolutely amazing. They arrived within minutes of being called. They displayed their professionalism in prioritising the saving of the main house with a team constantly dousing its roof whilst another team continued to control the carport fire,” she said.
The resident expressed gratitude to the firefighters, describing them as dedicated men and women who had demonstrated the value of the city’s emergency services.
“I am eternally grateful to these dedicated men and women and am proud that the city can boast such a remarkable service,” she said.
Cllr Coltart also commended the Fire Brigade, led by Fire Chief Mhlangano Moyo, saying the department continued to demonstrate its importance to residents.
“We really do have an outstanding Fire Department and my congratulations and thanks are extended to the Fire Chief and his entire Department,” he said.
The incident comes as the Fire Brigade continues to play a critical role in responding to fires and other emergencies across Bulawayo, where thatched structures and dry vegetation can increase the risk of fires spreading rapidly.
