Staff Reporter.

City of Johannesburg firefighters have contained a blaze that caught two shops on the corner of Jeppe and Polly streets in the CBD.

Joburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesperson Xolile Khumalo said two small shops caught fire.

"Firefighters attended to a fire call received at 04:55 this morning on corner Jeppe and Polly streets in Joburg. Two small shops are on fire. No injuries have been reported. EMS fire inspectors are standing by to conduct investigations on the cause of fire."

"EMS urges the community of Johannesburg to exercise extra precautions when using electrical appliances or braziers. Please ensure that these are switched off or put out when not in use. Stay safe and take care during this cold weather," said Khumalo.

The extent of the damage is unknown, and the cause of the blaze will be subject to an investigation.

In recent months, Johannesburg has seen a growing trend of building fires that have prompted the EMS to put five fire stations on standby to monitor the development in the inner city. 

Compiled by Lehlohonolo Lehana.