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Four children die in Mayfair fire

todayMay 19, 2025 131 1

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As the cold snap takes shape in the country, tragedy has struck in Gauteng, where four children lost their lives after their home caught fire in Mayfair, Johannesburg.

The City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) responded to a house on fire near 8th Avenue and West Street  earlier today.

The children, aged two years and younger, may have suffered smoke inhalation during the fire incident.

Preliminary investigations have revealed that the fire, was as a result of a heating device used to keep the children warm.

With temperatures expected to drop in the province starting from Wednesday, Joburg EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi has urged residents to be extra cautious when using heating devices during this time.

EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi says emergency teams are on high alert as freezing temperatures and strong winds are expected to grip the province from Tuesday night, peaking on Wednesday.

The City of Johannesburg also issued some safety tips for residents during the cold weather:

  • Keep burning candles out of reach of young children.
  • Never leave children unattended in a room with a lit candle, heater, or paraffin stove.
  • Store matches, lighters, and candles safely, away from children.
  • Use safety containers with child-proof caps to store paraffin.
  • Do not connect electricity illegally—it’s dangerous and could lead to serious harm or death.
  • Never leave a heater unattended while in use, as it may cause a fire at home.
  • Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any emergencies or illegal activities to authorities as the city braces for the effects of the cold front.
Photo credit: AFP

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of a drop in temperatures across the country as two cold fronts are set to make landfall.

Forecasters have also warned of possible snow.

Forecaster Tokelo Chiloane says the cold spell is expected to last for the rest of the week.

Written by: Nonhlanhla Harris

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