Atlantic Fire Services – Community Volunteer Firefighting Program

Atlantic Fire & Rescue (AFS) successfully hosted Training Session 2 in the Overcome Heights area, continuing its mission to build strong, skilled, and prepared community firefighting teams.

The session brought together 50 community volunteers, 8 community leaders, and members of SAPS, demonstrating powerful unity and shared responsibility for local safety. To equip these teams for immediate response, 30 fire extinguishers were issued to the community, strengthening on-the-ground fire protection across multiple high-risk zones.

AFS Commander Paul Krüger addressed the community after the training and equipment handover:

“We are in Overcome Heights in Cape Town with community leaders and the community. SAPS is here to protect us. We have just finished our community volunteer firefighting program,” said AFS Commander Paul Krüger.
“We are now donating fire extinguishers that will be placed into six teams across the area to stop these devastating fires. Thank you for what you are doing for Overcome. As you know, we have had many fires, and this is going to be a big help to the community.”

Community Leader Karen spoke on behalf of the residents, highlighting both appreciation and the ongoing need:

“From the Overcome side, we would like to receive more fire extinguishers so that every house can have one. We will also give input to the mayor on how to support this program. Thank you,” said Community Leader Karen.

Community Leader Michael emphasized the urgency and importance of the program, particularly during the high-risk summer season:

“We welcome the support that Atlantic Fire and Rescue brings to the community of Overcome. It comes at the right time — there can never be a better time than December,” said Community Leader Michael.
“It’s summer, it’s hot, and fire is a serious challenge. AFS is a non-profit organisation, not from government or the City. They are helping people who are the most vulnerable to fire. We know what happens in December, so we grab this opportunity with both hands and commit to working together to protect our community.”

Through continuous training, equipment distribution, and local partnerships, Atlantic Fire Services is ensuring that communities like Overcome Heights are no longer left helpless in the face of fire emergencies.

Prepared communities save lives. Together, we protect Overcome Heights.