In response to recent commentary from municipal fire brigades questioning the legitimacy and role of Fidelity SecureFire, the Fidelity Services Group wishes to address these concerns clearly and transparently.
“Fidelity SecureFire was established to offer a structured, lawful, and customer focused alternative to traditional fire response models,” said Group CEO of Fidelity Services Group Wahl Bartmann “We do not seek to replace public services but to enhance fire readiness for subscribed customers who choose to invest in additional protection.”
Before launching Fidelity SecureFire, Fidelity undertook extensive legal reviews, including consultations with its in-house legal team and formal legal opinions from senior counsel. The outcome confirmed that the company operates fully within the boundaries of the Fire Brigade Services Act, municipal by-laws, and other applicable laws.
“No provision prohibits a private entity from offering firefighting or fire prevention services to paying customers,” says Bartmann. “We are a private, contract-based fire response provider, not a public or municipal service.”
Fidelity SecureFire’s operation is entirely self-sufficient. Its fleet includes fully equipped fire response vehicles with 20,000-litre mobile water tankers and proprietary suppression systems — ensuring independence from municipal infrastructure. Teams are internationally certified, and the company employs a nationally coordinated deployment model focused on speed and readiness.
Addressing allegations regarding lack of integration with municipal control centres, Fidelity confirmed that such integration is not a legal requirement. “Our customers contact us directly through dedicated channels. The responsibility to alert local authorities remains with the property owner or occupant,” Bartmann noted.
Since its inception, Fidelity SecureFire has responded to over 1,000 fire incidents nationwide, often being first on the scene, including in high-demand areas such as Cape Town.
“We acknowledge that innovation can challenge legacy systems. But resistance to change should not cloud the legality or value of responsible private service models,” Bartmann continued.
Fidelity reaffirmed its respect for municipal fire brigades, noting the critical and courageous work they do. The company remains open to constructive dialogue and committed to playing a complementary role in South Africa’s broader fire safety ecosystem.
“To our customers – we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional service.
To the public – we operate lawfully, transparently, and professionally.
To the fire services who have raised concerns – our door is open to meaningful engagement.”
Fidelity SecureFire is here to stay – responsibly, lawfully, and without compromise.
