Residents of New Lobengula in Bulawayo experienced a night of terror when a fierce fire erupted in their community, marking a startling reminder of the dangers associated with the frequent use of candles during electricity outages.
The incident, which occurred late yesterday, lit up the night sky with an ominous glow, sending thick plumes of smoke into the air and triggering panic among nearby families.
As the flames consumed the structure, neighbors rushed to alert one another and assist those in danger, showcasing a commendable sense of community in a time of crisis.
Central to the drama was a teenager known only as “Sbu,” who lived in the engulfed dwelling. Eyewitness accounts revealed that he appeared to be heavily intoxicated prior to the fire, which may have impaired his ability to respond swiftly to the growing threat.
Fortunately, a courageous neighbor managed to rescue him just in time, pulling him from the flames’ reach. However, Sbu was later transported to Mpilo Central Hospital amid fears of smoke inhalation, serving as a grave reminder of the potential repercussions of intoxication in emergency situations.
Investigators from Bulawayo’s Fire Brigade arrived on the scene promptly and suggested that the inferno might have been sparked by an unattended candle, a scenario not uncommon in the area where frequent electricity outages have left residents reliant on alternative lighting methods.
As inquiries continue, local authorities are stressing the critical need to adopt safer practices in response to the persistent challenges posed by load shedding. “This incident is a wake-up call,” stated a fire brigade spokesperson. “We urge everyone to be vigilant and minimize the risks associated with using candles or other open flames.”
In the aftermath of the fire, the affected family finds themselves without a home, facing an uncertain future. Yet, a silver lining emerged as neighbors rallied to provide essential supplies and temporary shelter, demonstrating the power of community solidarity in times of hardship.
Local authorities and fire safety advocates are now working together to enhance awareness campaigns about fire safety, particularly in relation to the safe use of candles and the importance of maintaining a vigilant approach to household safety.
