When life threw an unexpected challenge, Cape Town firefighter Firdous Seat rose to the occasion, delivering her own nephew in the early hours of Monday morning.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith says the off-duty officer stepped in when she received the news that her brother’s girlfriend was in labour, but was unable to get to the hospital due to transportation challenges.

“They had no transport, so the off-duty firefighter rushed over to offer them a lift to hospital, while also calling for assistance from emergency services. On arrival at their home, however, the mother-to-be was already crowning, and firefighter Seat jumped into action and helped deliver a healthy baby boy.”

Soon after, colleagues from Salt River Fire Station arrived, checked on mother and child, and escorted them to Mowbray Maternity Hospital. Both mom and baby are doing well.

Smith says the city’s firefighters have a proud track record of bringing newborns into the world and this case is no different, but all the more sweet and touching, considering the family connection.

“Well done to firefighter Seat for remaining calm under pressure, and congratulations to her and her family on the new arrival.”