Atlantic Fire Services’ Community Firefighting Training Strengthens Local Emergency Response

Delft Ward 20 witnessed a powerful show of unity and preparedness as 70 community volunteers came together for a vital Community Firefighting Training Day led by Atlantic Fire Services (AFS). The initiative was supported by Councillor Dineo and honoured by the presence of Chaplain Daniels from Chaplains Alert, alongside officials, neighbourhood watchers, and community leaders.

To strengthen immediate fire response in this high-risk area, 30 fire extinguishers were donated to the community, ensuring that trained teams are now equipped to act swiftly before fires spread and destroy lives and property.

AFS Commander Paul Krüger officially opened the training session, outlining the purpose and urgency of the programme:

“We are in Delft, Ward 20, with Councillor Dineo, Chaplain Daniels, community leaders and the community, where we are introducing our volunteer community firefighting programme,” said AFS Commander Paul Krüger.
“We are a non-profit, non-government organisation, and our programme includes fire awareness, fire safety, fire prevention, and a practical demonstration on how to use fire extinguishers.”

He went on to explain the danger of fires in Cape Town’s summer conditions:

“A fire extinguisher is the most basic firefighting tool that every house should have. All fires start small — in kitchens, from electricity — but within three minutes a fire can engulf a whole room,” said Krüger.
“In Cape Town, we also face strong summer winds, hot and dry conditions, and no rain, which makes fires spread even faster.”

Following the theory session, volunteers moved into hands-on practical extinguisher training, ensuring that every participant knew exactly how to respond in the critical first moments of a fire.

Councillor Dineo expressed deep appreciation to Atlantic Fire & Rescue and highlighted the urgency of the programme for the community:

“On behalf of myself and Ward 20, we would like to thank Atlantic Fire Services for thinking about our community, especially at this time of the season,” said Councillor Dineo.
“Just last week there were three fires in this area. You came at exactly the right time. These people you see here are our first responders — our neighbourhood watch, ECDs and informal settlement residents. Most of them face fire risks daily. In December, fires increase, and people lose everything. You have truly thought about us, and we thank you for this training.”

With trained volunteers, donated equipment, and unified leadership, Delft Ward 20 now stands better prepared to prevent, contain, and respond to fire emergencies before they turn into disasters.

Salute to every volunteer who stepped up to serve. Together, we are building safer, stronger communities.