SMOKE DETECTORS FOR INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS

Residents in high-risk informal settlements innie Kaap will benefit from a new fire safety initiative. 

The project, led by Astron Energy, in collaboration with local disaster management and fire departments, includes the installation of hundreds of early warning smoke detectors in these vulnerable areas.

Areas set to benefit include Du Noon, Joe Slovo, and Langa.

Astron Energy’s corporate affairs manager, Donna Fata, said the initiative is designed to prevent devastating fires and is being rolled out alongside multilingual fire safety training, supported by disaster teams, community forums, and firefighting volunteers. 

She said local authorities would carry out the training and installations in coordination with community stakeholders in each area.

Each installation site will fall within zones monitored by the provincial disaster management system, enabling faster emergency response and long-term tracking of fire incidents. 

The data collected will also help assess the programme’s overall impact over time.

Fata said: “Fires in informal settlements can have devastating consequences for families and communities. 

“Through this initiative, we aim to empower residents with early-warning technology and vital fire safety knowledge, helping to prevent loss of life and property. 

“By working closely with local authorities and community partners, we are committed to creating safer, more secure spaces where individuals can live with greater peace of mind.”

Last month, a 6-year-old boy was declared deceased when a fire ripped through informal settlements in Maroela Road in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein.

A total of 20 structures were destroyed displacing 60 to 80 people.