SEP1502
Assignment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due 25 September 2025
, SEP1502
Assignment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due 25 September 2025
Fire Prevention and Safety Strategies
Question 1: In your own words, describe the term “steam-driven fire engine.”
Answer:
A steam-driven fire engine is a firefighting vehicle that uses a steam engine to power its
water pump. Steam produced in the boiler drives pistons or rotary mechanisms, forcing
water under pressure through hoses to extinguish fires (Encyclopaedia Britannica,
2024). These engines, which emerged during the mid-19th century, revolutionised
firefighting by providing stronger and more reliable water pressure compared to hand-
pumped engines, until they were later replaced by internal-combustion fire engines (Fire
Fighters Association, 2023).
Question 2: Every security guard needs to be familiar with the sections of the Fire
Brigade Services Act 99 of 1987. Explain the Act based on the following sections:
2.1 Section 2
Answer:
Section 2 establishes the Fire Brigade Board and defines its membership and mandate.
The Board is responsible for advising and coordinating fire services nationally, setting
operational and training standards, and establishing committees to perform delegated
functions (Fire Brigade Services Act 99 of 1987, Sec. 2). Critically, this central authority
Assignment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due 25 September 2025
, SEP1502
Assignment 2
Semester 2 2025
Due 25 September 2025
Fire Prevention and Safety Strategies
Question 1: In your own words, describe the term “steam-driven fire engine.”
Answer:
A steam-driven fire engine is a firefighting vehicle that uses a steam engine to power its
water pump. Steam produced in the boiler drives pistons or rotary mechanisms, forcing
water under pressure through hoses to extinguish fires (Encyclopaedia Britannica,
2024). These engines, which emerged during the mid-19th century, revolutionised
firefighting by providing stronger and more reliable water pressure compared to hand-
pumped engines, until they were later replaced by internal-combustion fire engines (Fire
Fighters Association, 2023).
Question 2: Every security guard needs to be familiar with the sections of the Fire
Brigade Services Act 99 of 1987. Explain the Act based on the following sections:
2.1 Section 2
Answer:
Section 2 establishes the Fire Brigade Board and defines its membership and mandate.
The Board is responsible for advising and coordinating fire services nationally, setting
operational and training standards, and establishing committees to perform delegated
functions (Fire Brigade Services Act 99 of 1987, Sec. 2). Critically, this central authority
