A powerful and inspiring day unfolded at Yomelela Primary School in Site B, Khayelitsha, as Atlantic Fire Services delivered a full-circle fire safety training session to learners, teachers, and community stakeholders — reinforcing that fire awareness must start from a young age.

The training brought together SAPS Captain Dada and officers, Principal Mr Dlaku, educators, staff, and over 100 learners, all united around one goal: building a safer, more prepared community.

From the classroom to real-life action, learners were taken through critical fire safety topics, including the dangers of fires, how quickly flames can spread, and the life-saving “Stop, Drop and Roll” method. The session also focused heavily on the hidden danger of smoke inhalation — often the leading cause of death in fires — teaching learners how to stay low and escape safely.

“My name is Paul Krüger, and I’m the commander of Atlantic Fire. We are an NGO, and what we do is go into communities like Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, and Mfuleni to teach people how to fight fires,” he explained.
“But it’s important that you, as children — the future leaders — also understand fire safety.”

Commander Krüger highlighted how modern materials contribute to the rapid spread of fires, making early response and awareness more important than ever.

“Today, almost everything around us is made from synthetic materials like plastic — and that burns very fast. If there is a fire, it must be reported immediately,” he said.
“If you see something dangerous, like sparking electrical wires or someone playing with fire, you must tell an adult. You can save lives.”

One of the most impactful lessons of the day was teaching learners what to do if their clothing catches alight — a moment that saw enthusiastic participation from the children.

“If your clothes catch fire, never run,” he instructed.
“You must stop, drop to the ground, and roll. That will help put the fire out. And always shout ‘Fire! Fire! Fire!’ so people can come help you.”

The session also addressed one of the most overlooked but deadly threats in a fire — smoke.

“Black smoke is deadly,” Krüger warned.
“Most people who die in fires die because of smoke inhalation. If there is smoke, go down low — the air is safer near the ground. Stay low and get out quickly.”

The training was not only educational but highly interactive, giving learners and staff the opportunity to handle and practice with real fire extinguishers — building confidence and removing fear around emergency response.

The presence of SAPS and school leadership reinforced the importance of collaboration between emergency services, schools, and communities in building a culture of safety.

As the session concluded, Commander Krüger left the learners with a message of hope and responsibility:

“Children, one day you will be the leaders of this country. And I can already see many good leaders here today. Thank you.”

This training marks another step in Atlantic Fire Services’ mission to empower communities — not just through equipment, but through knowledge, awareness, and action.

Because when children are educated, communities are protected — and the future becomes safer for all.