Overstrand Municipality receives new HAZMAT and firefighting equipment

The Overstrand Municipality has received new firefighting and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) equipment to enhance its emergency response capabilities. The acquisition was funded through a R500,000 Municipal Fire Services Capacity Grant from the Western Cape Department of Local Government, supplemented by a municipal contribution of approximately R74,286.

In addition to the provincial grant, the municipality received firefighting equipment valued at R374,242 from Santam via its Partnerships for Risk and Resilience programme.

The new inventory includes Level A gas-tight responder suits, Level B splash suits, thermal imaging cameras for low-visibility operations, oversized over-drums for toxic waste containment, and specialized protective gloves. Executive Mayor Archie Klaas noted that the equipment is essential for allowing firefighters to safely enter dangerous environments to protect lives and property.