The buildings from 8 to 12 Cheapside Street in Kimberley’s central business district, have been closed immediately by the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality’s Emergency Services. The properties were ruled dangerous for habitation after a fire incident.

The buildings were engulfed by fire on Sunday (4/8). A church, clothing store, muti shop and an appliance repair store were severely burned and are no longer able to continue operations at the building.

“Upon inspection of the entire building block, Emergency Services discovered that another section of the building was being used as residential flats in violation of its occupancy classification based on approved building plans,” said Sol Plaatje spokesperson, Thabo Mothibi

Roof of the damaged building. Picture supplied

Upon inspection, the Emergency Services contacted the Bloemfontein-based owner with a notice to close the building due to the fire damage and unsafe conditions.

“The latter legislation grants the Chief Fire Officer the authority to close any building to protect its occupants and the property.”

The Fire Department inspected the residential flats as well and found multiple illegal electrical connections and unhealthy living conditions that are cause for concern.

Clothing hanging from the staircase in the flats depicts the living conditions. Picture supplied

“Our Emergency Services, also known as the Fire Department, conducts regular inspections to root out non-compliance. The members of the public are also encouraged to lodge concerns or complaints relating to unsafe buildings with the unit at 053 832 4212/3/4.”

According to the Fire Protection Association, this is what to do in case of fires.

• Crawl low in smoke
• Never open a door that is hot to the touch
• Wake everybody in the house
• If your clothing catches fire - STOP, DROP, ROLL
• Have a safe place to meet out of the house
• Never re-enter the house for pets or personal belongings
• Tackle the fire if it is safe to do so

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony cg