PLETTENBERG BAY AND SEDGEFIELD NEWS - More than a 100 structures burned down in two separate fires in the early hours of this morning - one in Bossiesgif in Plettenberg Bay and the other in Smutsville, Sedgefield.
Early estimates indicate a total of about 110 structures were destroyed.
The Bossiesgif fire was described by the Dignity Garden Route NPC as the worst in three years. It started shortly after 01:00 this morning, 4 August. About 600 people are estimated to have been displaced.
About 10 families lost their homes and possessions in the fire that swept through Smutsville in Sedgefield this morning.
Two years ago a similar fire in Smutsville, about 25 families lost their homes.
No injuries
A statement by Andile Sakati, Acting Head of Bitou Community Services, said the fire and rescue services were dispatched from the main fire station at 01:11, with additional support from Kurland crews and a request for assistance from the Knysna Municipality.
No injuries or fatalities have been reported, said the statement.
A total of 13 fire personnel and seven vehicles were deployed to contain the blaze.
“Despite challenging conditions - including difficult terrain, limited access, and strong winds - firefighters managed to contain the fire by 03:30,” said the statement.
Response and relief efforts
Disaster management, housing, electrical and social services teams were activated to assist affected residents.
Relief efforts include:
- Distribution of blankets, mattresses and food parcels
- Assessment of damaged structures and headcounts
- Support with rebuilding materials and documentation recovery, such as ID books
The cause of the fire at Bossiesgif remains unknown at this stage. The police have been notified and will conduct an investigation.
Emergency personnel on the scene of the Bossiesgif informal settlement fire.
Drop-off address
On social media, Dignity Garden Route NPC said it was in urgent need of the following: blankets, men’s clothing (small to medium), kids clothing (all sizes), baby formula, baby clothes and women’s clothing (all sizes).
Also needed for hygiene purposes are: 5-litre buckets, toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, washcloths, men’s deodorant and sanitary pads.
The drop-off address is Native Roots Shelter, corner of Marine Drive and Sea Witch Avenue in Plettenberg Bay.
Volunteers
Cindy Truyens (079 474 6380) called for volunteers to help with food donations, preparation work and serving.
“We have three restaurants helping with meals tonight. But we need plates/bowls and spoons to serve the food,” she said. “We need make sandwiches now and would welcome your help. We also need bread, butter, sandwich fillings, water and cooldrinks.”
She also encouraged the public to drop off old/surplus crockery and cutlery at Native Roots Shelter.
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