Selby Informal Settlement Fire Destroys 400 Shacks
A devastating fire tore through the Selby informal settlement near Booysens, Johannesburg, on Monday, leaving over 230 families and 170 individuals without shelter. Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS) confirmed that more than 400 shacks were destroyed, but thankfully, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
Firefighters Battle the Blaze
Johannesburg EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi stated that firefighters battled the raging flames throughout the night, only bringing the fire under control in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that common fire hazards such as paraffin stoves, candles, and illegal electricity connections may have contributed to the disaster.
π Watch Robert Mulaudziβs update on the fire:
High Fire Risk in Informal Settlements
Fires in informal settlements are tragically common due to the widespread use of:
β
Paraffin stoves
β
Candles
β
Illegally connected electricity
Mulaudzi stressed that fire risks remain high in these areas, urging residents to take extra precautions when using cooking and heating appliances.
Relief Efforts Underway
With over 230 families left homeless, disaster management teams have stepped in to provide aid. Several non-profit organizations have also come forward to assist, including:
- Shoprite
- Touch of Heart
- MES
- Red Cross
- Gift of the Givers
Additionally, the former Solomon βSticksβ Morewa Hospital is also playing a role in relief efforts.
A Growing Crisis: Recent Fires in Johannesburg
The Selby fire follows a string of recent fires in Johannesburgβs informal settlements and residential areas:
π₯ Zandspruit Informal Settlement β A fire destroyed nine shacks last week, with no reported injuries.
π₯ Student Accommodation Fire in Tshwane β A blaze gutted eight rooms and a hallway in a building under renovation.
Authorities Urge Caution
Johannesburg EMS continues to educate residents on fire safety measures and is urging those living in high-risk areas to:
βοΈ Avoid leaving candles and paraffin stoves unattended
βοΈ Refrain from illegal electricity connections
βοΈ Have a fire escape plan in case of emergencies
The Selby informal settlement fire has left hundreds of residents in urgent need of assistance. As investigations continue, relief efforts are being coordinated to provide shelter, food, and other essentials. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the fire dangers in densely populated settlements, reinforcing the need for fire safety awareness and better infrastructure to prevent future disasters.
