It has been a devastated weekend, in terms of fire-related incidents in the Cape. At least 14 fatalities were reported this past weekend, including seven minors.
PICTURE: PixabayIn one of the latest
incidents, two adults died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in New Woodlands,
Mitchells Plain, on Sunday evening. It is understood the family had taken a
drum of hot coals indoors, and were overcome by the lack of oxygen.
Two victims were
declared deceased on scene, while two children were transported to hospital for
treatment. SAPS has since confirmed that the children too, passed away.
Meanwhile, twelve
people died in five fire incidents in Khayelitsha, Delft and Hout Bay, that
destroyed a total of 11 dwellings.
Mayco member for safety
and security, JP Smith, urged residents to be cautious.
‘’The loss of life is
absolutely heart-wrenching, and the City's Disaster Risk Management Centre is
coordinating relevant services to respond to psycho-trauma and
humanitarian assistance for the affected residents. The individual fire
incidents are under investigation by the SAPS, but we also want to urge the
public please to keep fire safety top of mind at all times, particularly amid
the incredibly cold weather that we have been experiencing. Please do not leave
open flames or any heating sources unattended, ever; do not leave children
unattended, and do not make fires indoors if you do not have a properly
ventilated fireplace. The risks, as we have sadly seen, are simply too great,'
said JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.
Done By: Alungile Njemla
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