Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor
A swift response by the Bulawayo Fire Brigade saved property worth more than ZIG1.1 million after a fire gutted parts of a home in Morningside during the early hours of this morning.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo, confirmed the incident, saying the brigade received a report of a property fire at a house in Morningside shortly after 1AM.
“At 0119 hours we received a report of a property fire in Morningside. At 0120 hours, four fire engines were mobilised to the scene and were in attendance by 0126 hours,” said Mr Moyo.
He said upon arrival, firefighters found the house “well alight”, with part of the roof having already collapsed.
“The brigade deployed three jets and one high-pressure hose reel, supported by Breathing Apparatus equipment. Search and rescue operations were also carried out to account for occupants. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded as the fire started in the early morning hours,” said Mr Moyo.
He said the fire was discovered late by two occupants who woke up after seeing flames raging on the roof.
Mr Moyo said preliminary investigations point to an overcharged solar installation system as the likely cause of the blaze. The fire was further fueled by three 9kg gas cylinders in the kitchen, one of which exploded, intensifying the blaze.
“Damage was concentrated on the kitchen side, with a V-plume pattern indicating the path of the fire,” he said.
According to Mr Moyo, the estimated value of the property is ZIG1.8 million, with losses amounting to ZIG700 000, while ZIG1.1 million worth of property was saved.
He urged residents to ensure they have emergency contacts readily available and to report fires promptly.
“The brigade urges the community to report fires as soon as they are detected to avoid such predicaments. In this case, the occupants did not have brigade numbers, which resulted in delays. Residents should also monitor their solar systems and gas installations closely to prevent similar incidents,” said Mr Moyo.
