Mat South Correspondent
Gwanda Municipality has addressed public concerns following a viral video that showed a firefighter attempting to extinguish a burning car using a small dish.
The incident involved a Toyota Runx that caught fire while the driver was seeking mechanical assistance on the road from Beitbridge to Gwanda. Despite the firefighters’ efforts, the vehicle was ultimately consumed by flames.
Municipality’s Response
In a statement released on their X account, Gwanda Municipality clarified that they received a distress call about the fire on November 18, 2024.
They emphasized that their fire team responded promptly to the emergency.
However, they faced significant challenges during the incident, particularly with their firefighting vehicle, which reportedly could not engage the necessary gears for effective operation.
Mechanical Challenges
The lead firefighter indicated that the mechanical issues with the fire truck forced the team to improvise their firefighting strategy, which was not ideal and posed risks to personnel. Despite these challenges, an investigation later confirmed that there was no technical fault with the fire brigade vehicle itself.
Commitment to Improvement
Gwanda Municipality expressed regret over the incident and highlighted the importance of adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure effective responses in future emergencies. They reassured the community of their commitment to safety and transparency, stating that corrective measures have been implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The municipality concluded by reaffirming their dedication to being prepared for emergencies and ensuring the well-being of the community.
Zim GBC News©2024