EDEN DISTRICT NEWS - Eden District Council (EDM) is expanding its firefighting function and R5,5-million was approved in this year's adjustment budget towards that end. Most of this will be used for purchasing fire engines.
In recognition of the long hours that firefighters work, it was decided to refurbish their bases with some home comforts.
R150 000 was provided in the 2017/18 budget for capital items, which include furniture and equipment. The fridges, mattresses, microwaves, DSTV and other items purchased in February for the George and Hessequa firebases were handed over in George on Friday 23 March.
The EDM mayoral committee and executive managers addressed firefighters at their base in George.
Wellbeing
Executive Mayor Memory Booysen said the improvement of firefighters' wellbeing is an ongoing process. "We have raised the issue of your welfare, your circumstances and the future of firefighters at EDM. It hasn't been an easy road for any of us, but this is only the beginning of great things to come," said Booysen.
"During the 2017 Knysna fires, firefighters had to sleep under firetrucks or on the back of trucks at fire scenes; thankfully, conditions have changed drastically since", said the executive manager of Community Services, Clive Africa.
More firefighters
Africa said that they are also looking at expanding the team of firefighters. "In 2006 a study revealed that we would need 60 firefighters to effectively safeguard the entire district, but because of budget constraints we have only been able to appoint 40.
"They have done an excellent job under the circumstances by delivering a quality, dedicated service to the district for years."
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