MMC for safety and security JP Smith said shortly before 2am, all major hotspots had been extinguished and residents started returning to their homes. This after several chose to evacuate as a precaution.
Describing the firefighting efforts, he said: “Resources were scrambled and crews had to carry hoses through the sides of properties to access the mountainside behind the houses. They battled thick smoke and soaring temperatures as the blaze threatened to come closer.”
“Strong winds made firefighting efforts difficult for ground crews and helicopter pilots. Water bombing had to be called off at around 8pm due to visibility. Crews worked hard to damp down vegetation close to the fire breaks, which prevented the fire from coming closer.
“Firefighters dragged hoses as they picked their way across steep rock slopes. A hose once filled with water easily weighs 100kg. In many instances they had to connect up to three hoses together to reach the flames,” Smith said.
“The firefighters are exhausted and trying to catch some sleep, but are ready to spring back into action if the need arises. They are sleeping in front of houses that may need their protection again. They have my deepest appreciation.”
100 firefighters battle blaze across Simon’s Town mountain slopes
Image: City of Cape Town
Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters supported by helicopters dropping water battled a blaze in Simon's Town, south of Cape Town, from early on Tuesday into the early hours on Wednesday to protect houses and the naval base.
Five firefighters sustained injuries, two of whom were taken to hospital for treatment, City of Cape Town fire and rescue services spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said.
The fire was reported shortly before 7am on Tuesday.
“Only a single derelict building was damaged last night at around 8pm on the grounds of the SA Navy. The threat to the houses on Victory, Horatio and Barnard Streets was averted in the early hours of this morning,” Carelse said.
Three choppers were water bombing the area to ensure the fire was contained.
MMC for safety and security JP Smith said shortly before 2am, all major hotspots had been extinguished and residents started returning to their homes. This after several chose to evacuate as a precaution.
Describing the firefighting efforts, he said: “Resources were scrambled and crews had to carry hoses through the sides of properties to access the mountainside behind the houses. They battled thick smoke and soaring temperatures as the blaze threatened to come closer.”
“Strong winds made firefighting efforts difficult for ground crews and helicopter pilots. Water bombing had to be called off at around 8pm due to visibility. Crews worked hard to damp down vegetation close to the fire breaks, which prevented the fire from coming closer.
“Firefighters dragged hoses as they picked their way across steep rock slopes. A hose once filled with water easily weighs 100kg. In many instances they had to connect up to three hoses together to reach the flames,” Smith said.
“The firefighters are exhausted and trying to catch some sleep, but are ready to spring back into action if the need arises. They are sleeping in front of houses that may need their protection again. They have my deepest appreciation.”
TimesLIVE
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