In the early hours of 6 August 2018, a fire broke out at the Kathrada Park Informal Settlement to the west of the Inner City, which engulfed approximately 100 shacks and left about 250 residents homeless.
The Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Management Services (EMS) fire fighters, as well as the Disaster Management team rushed to the scene in aid of the affected residents.
The blaze was contained by the EMS firefighters and residents were moved to a place of safety, however, the fire caused serious damage to the residents’ properties. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
The Disaster Management team concluded a needs-analysis and identified a temporary emergency shelter at the nearby Danie van Zyl community hall for the destitute fire victims. Blankets and food packs were supplied to the victims.
Disaster Management’s relief partners were also quick to the aid; organisations such as Gift of Givers delivered mattresses and blankets; Pick ‘n Pay delivered mixed non-perishable groceries; Meals on Wheels and the Tzu Chi Foundation provided lunch and dinner to the residents and the Alimdaad Foundation provided hygiene packs.
An interim investigation shows that the fire may have been caused by an intoxicated person leaving a lit candle unattended. However, a full investigation into the cause of the fire is still underway.
Public Safety MMC Michael Sun said, “I want to express the City’s sincerest appreciation to our Disaster Management Relief Partners for their prompt assistance. When a fire incident such as the one at the Kathrada Park Informal Settlement occurs, the most vulnerable members of our community are worst affected. I also want to commend the Ward Councillor, Susan Stewart, for her tireless efforts in assisting the community. It’s in such difficult times that we as a City must unite to help others to overcome this tragedy”.
The winter season has always seen a rise in fire incidences – we urge our residents to take extra precautions around open flames as one careless move could result in hundreds of people losing their homes, or worse, their lives.
For emergency incidents residents are urged to call (011) 375 5911 or 10177 for help.