Community Fire and Rescue Training Strengthens Local Response Capacity

Philippi’s Browns Farm community took a significant step toward fire preparedness on 25 November 2025, as Atlantic Fire and Rescue led a large-scale training session attended by Ward councillors, officials, community leaders and 90 volunteers. As part of the initiative, 20 fire extinguishers were issued to community leaders responsible for high-risk zones within the area.

Over the past year, Atlantic Fire and Rescue has expanded rapidly across Cape Town’s informal settlements, a point emphasised by Commander Paul Krüger, who addressed the gathering with a clear message:
The long-term success of the programme is in the hands of the community.

Commander Krüger explained the philosophy behind AFR’s approach:
“Atlantic Fire and Rescue can donate fire extinguishers, training and our support to you, but the success of this program is in your hands as the community. We can give you the equipment and show you how it works, but you are the ones who will make this a success.”

He outlined the scale of AFR’s work to date, noting that more than 1,500 volunteers have been trained, and over 800 extinguishers have already been placed in communities, including Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Masiphumelele, Taiwan and Gugulethu.

The impact is already visible.
“This month alone, volunteers have stopped 10 fires,” Krüger said. “And every time we lose only one house, not 20, 30 or 50. We know it’s working. But the key is that people must be there within 10 minutes. If you can get the fire while it’s still small, you can win it with a fire extinguisher.”

Krüger warned that once fires grow beyond the early stage, even professional fire units struggle to contain them — especially under the fierce summer winds Cape Town is known for. With December and January approaching, he stressed that informal settlements remain at high risk.

He highlighted one of the most common ignition sources: unsafe electrical wiring.
“If you see wires making sparks, it must be reported and fixed. Many places simply twist open wires together with no insulation tape. When the wind blows, they move, heat up and eventually cause a fire. This is something the community must check up on.”

Turning back to the donated fire extinguishers, Krüger reminded residents of their purpose:
“These fire extinguishers are life-saving emergency equipment. They are going to save somebody’s life this December and January. They must be kept properly, not used for play, and they belong to the whole community.”

The extinguishers will now be distributed among Philippi’s informal settlements, strengthening the first-response teams that volunteers have already formed.

A local councillor closed the event by acknowledging AFR’s continued support:
“We are very grateful to Atlantic Fire Services for coming on board and assisting our communities to ensure that they are going to be safe over this festive season. Thank you very much.”

The training day marks another urgent step toward empowering communities to protect themselves — not only with tools, but with knowledge, coordination and readiness.