The Working on Fire - Kishugu Joint Venture expressed deep sadness over the deaths of six firefighters who succumbed to injuries sustained during a fire incident in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. | Midlands EMS
Durban — The firefighting fraternity at Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture has paid tribute to the six firefighters who died after responding to a fire incident in the Boston area, west of Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.
The firefighters were battling to contain the runaway fires in the farming community.
In a post on Facebook on Sunday, Kishugu said: “On behalf of the Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture, we wish to express deep sadness over the tragic loss of six firefighters who succumbed to injuries sustained during a devastating fire incident in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands today.”
Kishugu said the brave firefighters died from their injuries, while others are currently hospitalised for severe burns.
“Our hearts go out to the families, colleagues, and friends of these fallen firefighters,” Kishugu said.
“Their dedication and selflessness in the face of danger shows the true spirit of service and sacrifice that defines our firefighting community.”
Kishugu reiterated that none of their firefighters from Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture were affected by the incident.
“We will continue to work together with local fire authorities, Fire Protection Associations, and landowners in continuing to battle the ongoing wildfires that are ravaging KwaZulu-Natal,” Kishugu added.
WOF-Kishugu general manager Stephen Boyes said: “We wish to express our deep sadness for the tragic loss of the brave man (1) and women (5) who succumbed to injuries sustained during the devastating fire incident in the KZN Midlands. Their dedication and selflessness in the face of danger show the true spirit of service and sacrifice that defines our firefighting community.”
UMngeni Municipality mayor Chris Pappas had indicated that Sappi, Working on Fire, local landowners and uMgungundlovu Fire responded to a runaway grass fire along the Boston/Impendle Road.
Midlands EMS reported that crews were dispatched where multiple firefighters were injured in a veld fire. On arrival, paramedics were faced with a “horrific” scene, with several patients still ablaze and several deceased.
Midlands EMS crews, along with Midlands EMS rescue medics, worked to stabilise several patients on the scene while the veld fire continued to rage. A firefighting aircraft attempted to douse the flames and the decision was made to call in additional back-up, including an aeromedical helicopter from Netcare 911, with extra equipment to assist on the scene.
“Three firefighters were placed on ventilators on the scene, with one being airlifted to the hospital. Two other patients were also in critical condition, requiring urgent advanced life support treatment,” Midlands EMS said.
“With great sadness, we can confirm that the death toll has risen from 3 to 6, with 3 additional members succumbing to their injuries,” Midlands EMS said in a 6pm update.
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