Staff at a private hospital in Kroonstad, who have been praised for taking the lead in fighting an encroaching veld fire that was heading for the premises, said that thanks to extensive fire drills, they were well prepared.
“The fire was closing in on us rapidly, and it was so close that the smoke had caused the fire doors in the hospital to close,” said Judene Kotze, the manager on duty at Netcare Kroon Hospital when the fire broke out near the facility over the weekend, according to TimesLIVE.
“The smoke was extremely thick. Fortunately, we have all been well prepared for such a situation, and the excellent training and expertise gained from our regular fire drills immediately kicked in. We knew what to do and how to do it.
“Everybody was committed to protecting our hospital and patients from the approaching blaze, and did their part without hesitation. Those leading our firefighting team were women – from nursing to technical staff, our colleagues from Empact and security, and even kitchen workers – and they all worked shoulder to shoulder to extinguish the fire and keep everyone safe.”
Several employees were treated for smoke inhalation, and two were treated for minor burns on their forearms.
Tommie Hugo, long-standing general manager of Netcare Kroon Hospital, expressed his gratitude to the team.
“The most impressive thing is they took ownership of the situation. They did some tricky work in coupling the hoses to the fire hydrants, but knew exactly where everything was. The equipment was in good condition, and they knew exactly how to use it. They were able to get everything under control in record time, and by the time help arrived, patients, staff and buildings were well out of danger.
“It was a dangerous situation, and given how highly flammable the oxygen tanks and other equipment on site are, there was no time to be lost.
“Most of our staff are women, and on Saturday, more than 60% of those fighting the fire were women. They saved the hospital and did what they had to do without a moment’s hesitation.”
Hugo said regular drills ensured everyone was fully aware of emergency protocols.
“This is a powerful illustration of how preparedness, training and determination of spirit can overcome daunting challenges. I could not be prouder of my colleagues.”
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