For most people, the sound of a fire alarm immediately signals that it is time to act. But for a deaf employee, a conventional audible alarm may not provide that same warning, potentially placing them at greater risk during an emergency.
Recognising the importance of ensuring that every employee is equipped to respond safely, the Cape Winelands District Municipality’s (CWDM) Fire Services recently hosted a dedicated Fire Safety Training session for the Municipality’s deaf employees.
The training combined important fire safety information with practical demonstrations, giving participants an opportunity to learn about different types of fires, how to approach a fire safely, the various substances and equipment used to fight fires, and the importance of remaining calm during an emergency.
Participants were also given practical experience in using a fire extinguisher and learned more about the protective clothing and equipment used by firefighters when responding to incidents in buildings and in the field.
For Aliseen Matolla, Logistical Support, the training was both challenging and highly rewarding.
“It was a very interesting and educational experience. I learned many new things that I did not know before, including the different types of fires, how to handle them, the different substances and equipment used, as well as safety measures,” she said.
One aspect that particularly interested her was the protective equipment worn by firefighters.
“I learned more about the different suits they use in buildings and in the field when they respond to a fire, and why every part of the uniform is important for their safety.”
The experience also gave her a renewed appreciation for the work of CWDM’s firefighters.
“I now have even more appreciation for what our firefighters do every day and how much knowledge, preparation and protection are needed to work safely.”
Her colleague, Coléne Burger, Principal Clerk: Registration, summed up her experience enthusiastically: “WOW, I learned so many new and interesting things! It was a very special experience and I am not sorry that I did it. It was definitely worthwhile.”
Liza Wright, Logistical Support Services, particularly enjoyed the practical component of the training.
“I learned a lot about fire safety, how to approach a fire correctly and how important it is to remain calm in an emergency situation. The practical part was especially enjoyable because it gave us the opportunity to apply what we had learned ourselves.”
John van Zyl, also from Logistical Support, simply described the course as “very interesting” and said that he thoroughly enjoyed it.
For CWDM Fire Services, the training was about more than teaching employees how to use a fire extinguisher. It was about ensuring that emergency preparedness is inclusive and accessible, and that all employees have the knowledge and confidence to respond appropriately should a fire or other emergency occur.