WESTERN CAPE NEWS - The Working on Fire/Kishugu joint venture in the Western Cape is gearing up for the upcoming summer fire season with intensive refresher Yellow Card Training Camps.
These training camps are essential in ensuring that our firefighters are well-prepared and competent to handle the challenges of fighting wildfires.
A total of 1 070 dedicated firefighters are currently participating in these training camps, which are being held concurrently in two locations.
The first camp, in Bredasdorp, caters to teams from the Western Region, while the second camp in George is for teams from the Southern region. Training started on 2 October and will continue until 23 October.
Over three days, each team undergoes rigorous assessments that test their physical and emotional readiness to handle tough and sometimes life-threatening situations.
The assessment criteria include strict fitness standards to ensure that our firefighters possess the endurance and stamina required to work long hours on the fire line and can escape life-threatening scenarios.
The training goes beyond theoretical knowledge; it involves real-life scenarios that simulate the challenges faced by firefighters in the field. This includes walking through simulated raging flames to ensure they can safely escape when trapped.
Additionally, teams are taken to the field where they are presented with a fire scenario approaching properties. They are tasked with formulating and executing a plan of action to protect the environment and save lives.
Within a specific time frame, they must demonstrate their ability to create a firebreak that prevents the flames from crossing a designated boundary.
Antoniette Jini, Western Cape general manager, emphasised the importance of these training camps.
"We want to ensure that everyone will be able to provide the best possible support during firefighting missions. From the teams that have already completed their refresher training, we are impressed with their readiness levels, and we are confident that they will not disappoint. We would like to emphasise safety first and discipline as part of our organisational values and we will make sure to maintain them accordingly. "
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