George Municipality Launches Public Education Campaign on Emergency Access in Informal Settlements

Mlungiseleli Henry-Stone Ciko is deeply committed to educating communities

The George Municipality has launched a public education campaign to improve emergency access in informal areas, particularly those with limited access to emergency services for fire response, police assistance, and medical assistance. This campaign is led by Mlungiseleli Henry-Stone Ciko, a Platoon Commander who joined the George Municipality in December 2023.

“As we respond to emergencies, especially in informal settlements like Thembalethu’s Gushindoda, New Valley, and Botswana, it has become evident that some areas are inaccessible. Many shacks are built on land that could serve as pathways or driveways, which blocks access for emergency vehicles,” Ciko explained.

The campaign began in September with a well-attended meeting that combined residents from New Valley and Botswana. Attendees included community members, councillors, ward committee members, and other key stakeholders. During the session, informational pamphlets on fire safety were distributed, and discussions were held on creating pathways for emergency services.

“We covered several critical points in our discussion, including sharing emergency contact numbers, explaining the importance of quick access for fire and medical services, and addressing illegal electrical connections that obstruct access and pose fire risks,” said Ciko. “We also spoke to children about fire prevention measures, like safely storing paraffin, handling gas stoves, and candle safety.”

The campaign’s focus on accessibility involves asking residents to commit to adjusting yard sizes and relocating structures that block pathways. Feedback from the initial meetings has been positive, with residents expressing willingness to make adjustments.

In the upcoming follow-up meetings, Ciko hopes to see progress. “As much as they want the Council to support them, we need their commitment to clearing pathways and reducing obstacles. This cooperative effort can significantly improve our ability to respond effectively in emergencies.”

With 30 years of experience in emergency response and fire safety, Ciko is deeply committed to educating communities to help minimise the impact of emergency incidents. His career began as a learner firefighter in 1994 with the Uitenhage Municipality, now the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality and he has since held roles such as Station Commander and Acting Divisional Commander.

He joined George Municipality in 2023, focusing on public education, mountain rescue, and firefighting in local communities. Ciko’s contributions have earned him the 2009 Centrum Guardians Project Award for heroism in South Africa’s emergency services, and he holds multiple certifications in firefighting, hazmat operations, and fire safety instruction.