FIREFIGHTERS at the Lansdowne Road Fire Station helped a mom deliver a premature baby girl during the early hours of Friday morning.
Around 1.15am, the crews were summoned by the sound of the fire alarm when an expectant mother came to the fire station for assistance as she was in labour and ready to give birth.
Platoon Commander Johan Krynauw, who is no stranger to assisting with deliveries, kept the mom calm while he conducted an assessment and determined that the baby would arrive at any moment.
The expectant mom was only 28 weeks pregnant, but by 1.45am on Friday her baby girl made her appearance.
An ambulance arrived just after 2.00am and transported the mom and her newborn daughter to the Khayelitsha Day Hospital.
Platoon Commander Krynauw said that although this is not his first rodeo, with fire departments around the city helping to deliver six babatjies over last year’s festive season.
He explained: “We were in our quarters but were summoned via alarm by the watch room attendant and quickly rushed to her aid.
“It is always a little stressful, especially in cases like this, where the mother was only at 28 weeks.
“But we are trained for this, and so yes, that muscle memory kicks in and you know what to do.
“Keeping the expectant mother calm as they are critical to the success of any birthing process.
“It is an amazing feeling, especially since most of our calls, whether fire or special service calls like motor vehicle accidents and trauma cases, usually involve people who are seriously injured and some who do not make it.
“Playing a role in bringing a new life into the world will always remain one of the most special experiences of my career.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith praised: “He also highlighted the community impact: “For many residents, especially in areas like Khayelitsha and Gugulethu, the nearest hospital can be far.
"Our firefighters’ quick thinking can make the difference between life and death.
“That’s why their role goes beyond traditional firefighting - it’s about protecting and serving our communities in every way possible.”