SEDGEFIELD NEWS FLASH - Despite the quick response from both Knysna and Eden District Municipality’s Fire Departments, 13 Beverly Hills', Sedgefield homes were destroyed leaving 22 families destitute yesterday, July 22.
Strong winds fanned the flames that the firemen were bravely fighting, causing the fire to crash through the informal settlement’s closely situated structures, leaving only devastation in its wake.
Within minutes of the plumes of smoke becoming visible, locals raced to the scene in offer of help and support.
There were no fatalities.
“I stood comforting a mother of two who had lost everything, and I mean everything. She could not speak and just cried and cried,” said Sedgefield resident, Belinda Hobson.
Soon after the news of the fire broke on social media, several pleas for help went out and residents started delivering clothes, blankets and other necessary items to the designated drop off points – Sedgefield Information office and the Smutsville Community Hall.
Kirsty Hofhuis, chairperson of Sedgefield Animal Matters (SAM) said that her committee members too had raced to the scene to offer comfort to not only the humans but the many animals that may have been affected.
“So often the many animals affected by trauma get forgotten so we are trying to find these frightened animals and offer them comfort and safety.”
Christopher Bezuidenhoudt, Knysna Municipal spokesperson, said that the cause of the fire is under investigation and confirmed that the displaced families have been offered temporary shelter in the Smutsville Community Hall.
“Our Human Settlement Department will supply the families with new building material on Monday,” he said.
“If there is anyone who would like to donate clothing and/or items to these 22 families please contact me,” said Dr Levael Davis, Ward 1 DA candidate, who was visibly shaken by the effect of the fire.
An urgent request for items, especially mattresses for these families, has been put out to the community.
Anybody who are willing to help may contact Sedgefield Information office on 044 343 2007 and / or Levael Davis on 084 804 6558. Items may either be taken directly to the Smutsville Community Hall or dropped off at Sedgefield Information office.
If anyone can assist the Sedgefield Fire Department with the mammoth mopping up operation they are requested to contact 044 349 2900.
Clothes and blankets donated to the destitute families. Photo: Fran Kirsten
Firefighters on the scene. Photo: Supplied.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: FRAN KIRSTEN
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