A tragic incident has rocked the Phomolong community in Thembisa. Two women died from carbon monoxide poisoning after using a brazier (imbawula) to stay warm during the night. The incident has raised fresh concerns around energy safety during load shedding.
Victims Found Unresponsive in Rented Room
The lifeless bodies of two women, aged 30 and 31, were discovered inside their rented room in Emakorobeleni, Phomolong. The discovery was made on Wednesday afternoon by the boyfriend of one of the deceased. According to local sources, the women had gone to bed on Tuesday night, unaware that the brazier would pose a deadly risk.
Read more about the recent tragedy in Tshwane: Five Dead, Six Injured in Bronkhorstspruit Tavern Shooting
Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer
Preliminary reports suggest that the women died due to carbon monoxide inhalation. They had used a brazier—commonly known as an imbawula—to keep warm during an electricity outage. Unfortunately, the enclosed space and lack of ventilation turned the brazier into a silent killer.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that is extremely toxic. When inhaled in large quantities, it replaces oxygen in the bloodstream, leading to unconsciousness and death. This kind of poisoning is especially dangerous during sleep, as victims often never wake up.
Paramedics Confirm Deaths at the Scene
Emergency medical personnel were called to the scene shortly after the bodies were found. Sadly, both women were declared dead upon arrival. The South African Police Service (SAPS) also attended the scene and opened an inquest docket. Their remains were transported to the Germiston government mortuary for further examination.
Families Devastated by Sudden Loss
The families of the victims have been left shattered by the incident. Community members who spoke to local media expressed their shock and sadness. One neighbour said, “They were good people. It’s heartbreaking to lose them like this.”
Many residents rely on braziers during power cuts, especially in winter, due to the lack of alternative heating sources. This has prompted renewed calls for public awareness campaigns around the safe use of such equipment.
Energy Poverty and Load Shedding Risks
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by energy poverty and unreliable electricity supply in South Africa. When faced with prolonged outages, many households turn to dangerous alternatives to cook or heat their homes. According to Eskom, load shedding remains a national reality due to infrastructure issues
Organisations like Arrive Alive also warn about the dangers of indoor fires and recommend ensuring proper ventilation when using any fuel-based heating source.
Learn about the new energy support initiative: Government Plans Gas Cylinder Subsidy to Help Poor Households.
Safety Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
To avoid similar tragedies, residents are urged to follow these safety guidelines:
- Never use an imbawula or brazier in an enclosed space.
- Ensure windows or doors are slightly open to allow ventilation.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
- Avoid sleeping with open fires or braziers still burning.
- Use gas heaters only in well-ventilated rooms.
A Call for Better Solutions and Awareness
This incident underscores the urgent need for safer, more reliable energy alternatives in under-resourced communities. Local government and NGOs must intensify efforts to educate the public on the dangers of indoor carbon-based heating.
Furthermore, increased investment in off-grid and renewable energy solutions could help reduce such tragedies in the future.
For the latest power outage updates in your area, see the Gauteng Load Reduction Schedule: 06 – 13 October 2025.
The loss of two young lives in Phomolong is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. As load shedding continues to disrupt lives across Gauteng, it is crucial to educate communities about safe heating practices. Let this incident serve as a wake-up call for both authorities and residents.
