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Firefighters deliver healthy baby boy after pregnant woman walks into Ottery station in Cape Town with early labor pains

Firefighters
Firefighters

Most mornings at a fire station start with checking equipment, prepping for emergencies, and maybe a quick coffee.

But for the Ottery fire crew in Cape Town, 24 July started with something no one saw coming — a surprise delivery, and not the kind involving hoses or ladders.


Unexpected Visitor Walks In Before Sunrise

Just before dawn, around 5:30 a.m., a woman showed up at the Ottery fire station complaining of abdominal pain.

She told the firefighters she was expecting her baby the next day and had been scheduled to deliver at Hanover Park Day Hospital — but clearly, her baby had other plans.


Firefighters Step In as Emergency Birth Team

Without hesitation, the on-duty crew jumped into action.

Leading the charge was Platoon Commander Amesha Bachan, who just so happens to be a qualified ambulance emergency assistant.

With calm professionalism and quick thinking, they helped deliver a baby boy right there at the station by 6:25 a.m.


Welcome to the World, Baby Lagen

The newborn, named Lagen, was delivered safe and sound.

A heartwarming photo shows little Lagen clutching Commander Bachan’s finger — a powerful image that captures the emotion and magic of the moment.

Once stable, both mother and baby were taken by ambulance to a nearby medical facility for further checks and care.


City Officials Praise the Firefighters’ Heroic Effort

Alderman JP Smith, who oversees Safety and Security in Cape Town, had high praise for the team.

“Firefighters didn’t hesitate to help little Lagen into the world safely,” he said.

“Their quick response ensured both mom and baby are doing well.”

Smith pointed out that while firefighters are trained for all types of emergencies, acting as midwives isn’t something they’re called on to do every day.

“They’ll remember this morning with pride,” he added.


A Story to Remember—and Share

This surprise delivery reminded everyone that fire stations are more than just places where emergencies are responded to—they’re also places where lives begin.

Cape Town locals are being asked to share their own stories of unusual birth locations—because let’s face it, this one sets the bar pretty high.