Fire and Rescue Services was put under heavy strain following several days of stifling heat
Earlier this afternoon a fire broke out in the Table Mountain National Park, and all our resources were deployed along with our aerial firefighting choppers. This is an active fire line and all agencies are trying to bring the fire under control, with the water bombing efforts from our choppers prohibited from flying after sunset.
Earlier this afternoon, crews were already fighting several fires, with the Incident Management Team despatched to 5 of the critical ones, including in Atlantis and the mountain slopes alight at Oudekraal.
Following the Red Hill fire, off duty crews were called up in order to ensure our firestations remain adequately resourced to deal with additional emergencies that may arise.
With 19 incidents being dealt with across the municipality simultaneously, and with 28 of our fire engines (major pumpers) already committed, an additional 5 fire engines were brought on duty, along with 14 water tankers, 5 4×4 Bravos and 8 Skid units. Additional vehicles will be pulled in if required.
In times like these, the constant investment over the years into our resouces, are now appreciated.
This is a developing story and will be updated as the situation changes.
Update:
Road closures have been removed, resources have been downscaled. While crews continue to dampen down alongside partner agencies, the Red Hill fire had split in 2 and aerial resources were able to make substantial progress before they were forced to ground.
While we often praise our firefighters, we must also send a specific word of thanks to our management team.m and alk those behind the scenes. Their expertise and experience allows us to manage our resources correctly in the moment, while also planning and coordinating the attack.
Fire and Rescue Services was put under heavy strain following several days of stifling heat https://t.co/dFnBqMZYZc#ArriveAlive #FireAndRescueServices #HeavyStrain #StiflingHeat #InsuranceChat @BurnshieldZA pic.twitter.com/QeKQStNapm
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) February 10, 2025
