City of Tshwane Firefighters Rescue Donkey from Septic Tank

On Wednesday, 12 March 2025, the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department swiftly responded to an animal rescue call on Graceland Drive in Bashewa, Pretoria East. The incident was reported at approximately 16:54, prompting the immediate dispatch of firefighting resources—including a fire truck, a water tanker, and a rope rescue unit—from Erasmuskloof and Innesdale Fire Stations.

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a donkey trapped in a septic tank pit filled with sewage waste. Establishing an incident command, they quickly formulated an action plan to secure the animal’s safety. One major challenge was a large concrete slab suspended over the donkey, which had to be safely removed before any rescue efforts could proceed. Fortunately, the open field setting provided ample ventilation for both the rescuers and the distressed animal.

Assisting from nearby property owners, firefighters utilized a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) to lift and remove the obstructing concrete slab carefully. Employing trench rescue techniques, they meticulously excavated a sloped pathway adjacent to the septic tank’s wall to gain access to the animal. Despite additional complications from large rocks and sludge buildup—which necessitated the slow, methodical removal of waste using buckets attached to utility ropes—the team persevered, working steadily around the donkey until they reached it.

At approximately 22:00, firefighters secured two heavy-duty slings around the donkey’s front and hind legs. With the TLB’s assistance, they gradually lifted the animal out of the pit, allowing it to regain footing and eventually walk to safety. By 23:00, the rescue operation was complete, and the donkey was decontaminated with a water solution. Remarkably, the animal sustained no injuries.

This successful operation underscores the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding both lives and property, regardless of the challenges encountered. The department also urges the public to exercise caution by erecting protective barriers around hazards like septic tanks, pits, and trenches to prevent similar incidents.

For any fire or rescue emergencies, please call 107 toll-free or 012 358 6300/6400. When reporting an emergency, remain calm, speak clearly, know your location, and provide a reliable contact number to ensure a prompt response.