1,000 fire detectors distributed in Masiphumelele

Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA), with support from FNB, has commenced the distribution of 1,000 fire detectors, which are automatically activated by the outbreak of fires.

IRSA has appointed Lumkani as the service provider for the installation of these fire detection devices across the densely populated township of Masiphumelele. Here, many residents who do not have access to reliable or safe supplies of electricity rely on open fires and gas appliances to cook food and keep warm, in homes that have often been constructed with highly flammable material. As a result, the area is prone to fast-spreading fires like the one that broke out just days before Christmas last year and devastated the lives of approximately 450 people. IRSA responded to these fires by providing hot meals and food packs to those affected.

“As determined as we are to be one of the first to respond to the needs of communities during times of crises, Islamic Relief South Africa is equally as committed to helping to strengthen communities’ resilience to disasters – by implementing early warning systems and supporting disaster preparedness training,” says IRSA CEO, Yusuf Mohamed. 

About FNB’s commitment to this Early Warning Systems Project, André Prinsloo, Head of Shared Prosperity and Care at FNB, says that: “As a bank with a deep-rooted purpose of help, we’re dedicated to uplifting communities by creating lasting and meaningful change in all that we do. We recognise that fire-related disasters can have devastating consequences, often leaving families without shelter, safety or support. By working with Islamic Relief, we’re deploying fire prevention systems in high-risk areas, guided by local insights and a proactive approach to risk mitigation. Our goal is simple, to prevent disasters before they happen and, ultimately, save lives.”

In addition to the distribution of fire extinguishing balls, IRSA is also facilitating community workshops on fire prevention and preparedness. A Masiphumelele resident, Nontsikelelo, who participated in one of these workshops on Saturday, 30 August, says that she is grateful that her community is being equipped with fire prevention tools and training: “Now that I see these fire extinguisher balls (…) I say thank you Lord, it will help us a lot”.