Bulawayo City Council Advises Flea Markets on Disaster Preparedness

Bulawayo City Council has advised flea market operators to prepare for disasters, including fires, following the Wednesday fire outbreak at the Mutize Flea Market in the city.

In a statement released on Monday by BCC Town Clerk, Christopher Dube the fire, which broke out after midnight on August 30, was suspectedly caused by an electric gadget that was left on or unattended.

“It is suspected that the fire was caused by an electric gadget that was left on or unattended,” stated Dube.

Modernizing Facilities

In response to this tragic incident, the council advised flea market operators to redesign and modernize their facilities, educate their staff on fire safety, avoid illegal connections of electricity, and regularize their operations, including constructing protective walls around their premises.

It also recommended the regular conduct of risk assessments, proper storage of flammable materials, the development of emergency evacuation plans, and the improvement of storage practices such as avoiding overcrowding, storing flammable materials near heat sources, and blocking exits.

Fire Safety Management

“The City of Bulawayo encourages collaboration between market management, vendors, and local Fire Brigade for effective fire safety management in markets and discourages cigarette smoking and the improper disposal of cigarette butts in markets,” Dube said in the statement.

He added, “Residents are encouraged to phone the Fire Brigade immediately when there is a fire outbreak on the following numbers-02922 71717-9 (on all networks) or 993/994 (TelOne Numbers only).”

Lastly, the council also called on residents, corporates, and development partners to assist in restoring the livelihoods of people who were affected by the Mutize Flea Market fire.