Firefighters at the Mfuleni Fire Station in Cape Town are proving that their bravery and readiness extend far beyond putting out fires. On Friday, January 17, the station’s crew demonstrated their remarkable ability to stay calm under pressure when they assisted a woman in labour, helping her give birth just 20 minutes after arriving at the station.
At around 1:35 p.m., the expectant mother arrived at Mfuleni Fire Station, visibly in distress as she went into labour. The on-duty firefighters immediately took charge, and with quick thinking and teamwork, they helped bring a healthy baby into the world. Shortly after the birth, the mother and her newborn were transported to Khayelitsha Day Hospital via ambulance for further care.
Alderman JP Smith, the mayoral committee member for safety and security, expressed his admiration for the firefighters’ swift and effective response. “Mfuleni Fire Station is a lifeline for many in the community, and it’s wonderful to see the staff excel not just in saving lives but also in bringing new life into the world,” Smith said. “We congratulate the firefighters for their prompt actions and send our best wishes to the mother and her newborn. We’re grateful everything went smoothly, and there were no complications.”
This is not the first time the Mfuleni Fire Station has found itself playing a crucial role in delivering babies. The station’s midwifery streak began in December 2024, when firefighters Joswin Lameyer and Khuselo Blaai helped deliver a baby after a mother arrived complaining of obstetric pains. Although paramedics were called to the scene, the firefighters took charge of the situation when the baby decided to come before help could arrive. With telephonic guidance from an emergency assistant, they helped the mother deliver a healthy baby boy.
Less than two weeks later, on December 12, another expectant mother arrived at the fire station, this time just before 10 a.m. Firefighters Eugene Meyering and Trevor Adams quickly got to work, assisting the mother in delivering a healthy baby girl just 45 minutes later, even cutting the umbilical cord themselves.
The Mfuleni Fire Station’s role as an unexpected yet vital part of the local community continues to shine, with these brave firefighters going above and beyond the call of duty to support those in need. Their quick thinking and dedication are a testament to their exceptional service, not only in times of fire and danger but in moments of joy and new beginnings as well.
