FIREFIGHTERS at the Ottery Fire Station had an unexpected turn to their shift when they had to take on the role of midwife and help a mother deliver a healthy baby boy into the world.
Last week Thursday on 24 July an expectant mother arrived at around 5.30am at the fire station complaining of abdominal pains which saw the crew on duty at the Ottery Fire Station responding to an unexpected delivery early that morning.
The crew immediately assisted the second time mom, who told them her bundle of joy was due only the next day, 25 July, and that she was going to give birth at Hanover Park Day Hospital.
Platoon Commander Amesha Bachan, a qualified ambulance emergency assistant, took the lead in delivering the healthy baby boy at around 6.25am.
The baby boy whose name is Lagen and his mom were transported by ambulance to a nearby medical facility for further treatment and observation.
Platoon Commander Amesha Bachan explains: “Firefighters didn’t hesitate to help little Lagen into the world safely and their quick reaction ensured both mom and baby are doing well. While our firefighters are trained to handle emergencies, the role of midwife doesn’t happen often. I am glad our residents know where to go in an emergency and it is heartwarming to see our staff step up to the plate every time.
“Everything went well and there were no complications, in no small part because of the role our firefighters played.”
The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith commended the firefighters for their bravery saying: “Congratulations to the firefighters for their cool heads and swift response. They will remember this morning with pride and we wish the mom and her new son all the best.”