A fire on the morning of Saturday 4 June left two people dead and 64 others displaced at the “Gaatjie” informal settlement in Diep River.
Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith said 40 firefighters responded to the scene.
“At 07:26 fire & rescue received the call and around 40 firefighters from Constantia, Wynberg, Lakeside, Ottery, even Mitchell’s Plain and Roeland Street were dispatched. Three water jets and one fog jet were put to use as teams worked fervently to extinguish the inferno.
“Sadly, an adult male and female perished in the flames.”
He added that a total of 15 structures were destroyed and 64 people left displaced.
“Disaster Risk Management was on scene to consider relief efforts and assist families with immediate requirements. With the winter cold now settling in, many persons turn to open-flame fires for warmth.
“With an increase of residential and informal settlement fires at a rate of around 10% each year, we implore all residents to exercise extreme caution this winter. Never leave an open-flame unattended and always ensure any fires are made away from surrounding materials that could easily ignite.”
Fatima Petersen, a resident at the “Gaatjie” informal settlement, said she was asleep when the fire started.
“A girl woke me up and she said there was a fire outside. When I went to look, the fire had already spread. Our home also burned down and we lost everything in the fire.”
Ashwin Mohamed, who lived directly next to the couple that perished, said he was lucky to escape with his life and a few belongings.
“We lived right next to them and when we woke up there was a commotion outside.
“Luckily we had a back door to get out and we could take some items such as a few clothes and the TV.”
Mohamed pointed to where his home used to stand, as he said it was a real tragedy.
“It could have been us.”
Ward 72 councillor Kevin Southgate, who visited the affected families, said building materials have since been donated.
“I would like to thank those who made donations to assist the families who lost everything.
“Polyoak has donated R50 000 worth of building materials.”
Should you be in a position to donate clothes, bedding and non-perishables kindly contact councillor Southgate at Kevin.Southgate@capetown.gov.za
