TRAINED TO SAVE

Thabazimbi – In just seven months, Thaba Fire and Rescue has transformed into a stronger, more capable emergency service – thanks to tireless dedication, community support, and a shared commitment to saving lives.

“We’ve grown a lot over the past 6 to 7 months, and I’m very proud,” said Pierre Loots, director at Thaba Fire and Rescue. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors and the local public.”

The journey began in April, when six members successfully completed a Basic Grass and Wildland Firefighting course – a crucial step in tackling veld fires that threaten both people and the environment. In March, five team members were sent for the IC Type 5 (Initial Response Accident Commander) course – and all five passed with flying colours. “It’s these kinds of qualifications that strengthen our ability to act fast and lead when every second counts,” Loots noted. May saw the success of the now well-known “Vuurfees”, a community-driven fire festival that raised awareness and rallied support for local firefighting efforts.

Most recently, in July, Thaba Fire and Rescue sent 11 members, along with one WildMed colleague, to complete a Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup course – and once again, all participants passed. These skills are vital for handling sensitive incidents with professionalism and care. And then, on Wednesday, 30 July, the team received a truly game-changing gift: a firefighting truck donated by the Waterberg District Municipality. 

Main photo: Thaba Fire & Rescue members around the table during their Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup training session — hands-on preparation for real-world challenges.