Two students at a Stellenbosch University (SU) residence recently suffered minor injuries after a fire broke out in one of the rooms. This is according to Carina Steytler, primaria of Irene residence.
The fire broke out at 05:35 on 14 August and was quickly brought under control, according to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson.
“A student in the residence extinguished the fire with a fire extinguisher,” said Viljoen, in correspondence with SMF News.
A fire that broke out in Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Irene residence on the morning of 14 August was contained without major damage to the residence. This is according to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson. PHOTO: Kobus Erasmus
“The only people that have been reported to have been injured are the two people that lived in the bedrooms across from [the room where the fire started],” said Steytler. “They had to jump over the fire in order to exit their bedrooms, because [the fire] was in the hallway as well.”
The two students have some burn wounds on their feet and lower legs, and were treated by Irene residents with first-aid training, according to Steytler.
“At this point, it is known that it is not so severe,” she said.
As no further complaints of injury were lodged, it is assumed that the students are in good health, according to Steytler.
The fire in the room that caught alight was contained without any major damage to the residence, according to Viljoen.
Cause not yet determined
The University’s insurers will be responsible for completing the necessary forensic investigations to determine the cause of the fire, according to Viljoen.
The hallway on the second floor of Irene residence sustained damage after a fire that started in one of the rooms spread. This is according to Carina Steytler, primaria of Irene. The cause of the fire is still unknown, according to Gavin Tarentaal, platoon commander at Stellenbosch Fire and Rescue. PHOTO: Kobus Erasmus
“Two fire engines and one medical vehicle were mobilised at 6:07 and arrived on scene at 6:10,” said Gavin Tarentaal, platoon commander at Stellenbosch Fire and Rescue, in correspondence with SMF News. “The roof, walls, door, electrical wiring, bed, bedding, and various personal effects were extensively damaged by fire, heat, smoke, and water.”
Cleaning of the affected rooms in Irene has already begun, according to Viljoen.
Fire safety
“This is a very good example of why it is important to practice fire escape and fire safety in [residences],” said Steytler. She added that the residence has quarterly fire drills and fire training.
“We’ve got fire marshals in every section area,” she said. “So we have systems in place, but obviously nothing prepares you for an actual fire.”
The room where the fire in Irene residence started (above) did not burn as badly as the hallway to which the fire spread. This is according to Carina Steytler, primaria of Irene. PHOTO: Kobus Erasmus
“I’m very proud of the Ireners for evacuating properly and working together and keeping each other safe,” said Steytler. “That’s something that was really, really beautiful to me.”