MEDIA RELEASE 8 December 2006 Christmas Message 2007 Executive Head Emergency Management Services Dr Ntombi Gule As the Head of the Emergency Services for the City of Johannesburg, at the end of another busy year and the start of a new year. I would have failed in my duties if I did not firstly assure the citizens that whilst they are celebrating and relaxing my team of emergency personnel will as always be on duty for any emergency situation, the service has identified certain areas that will need additional resources for example Hillbrow and Mary Fitzgerald Square. As usual a strong contingent of volunteers will bolster our staffing. Secondly I must warn the citizens to be aware of drunken and reckless driving, open water, swimming pools, the sun (protect your skin, prevent dehydration and be aware of lightning and flash flooding. Be careful with open fires and fireworks especially on New Year's Eve. Those citizens leaving the city on holiday should ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy, that all occupants in the vehicle have their seatbelts on and the driver should rest often (every two hours) in poor visibility increase following distances and put the head lights on, be sure to check if the area is a malaria area and take the necessary precautions (seek advice from travel clinics) In case of any emergency during the holidays the emergency numbers are: Johannesburg 375 5 911 National EMS 10177 Cell 112 Lastly I need to wish you all a blessed Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous 2007. Ends. Issued by: Emergency Management Services for the City of Johannesburg