Residents in the ‘deep south’ can only look on as the south peninsula remains blanketed in smoke while two wildfires continue to burn – in Simon’s Town and Glencairn.
Charlotte Powell from the Disaster Risk Management Centre sent out an update on Friday afternoon, as the Castle Rock fire that started on Tuesday morning continues to spread along the peninsula.
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Residents asked to pack valuables
“The Disaster Risk Management Centre reminds residents in these areas to please keep their doors and windows closed, to limit the amount of smoke entering their homes and to mitigate against any potential health impacts,” Powell said.
“There have been no new evacuations since last night; however, we need residents to be mindful that the situation can change at any moment, and we therefore request those closest to the fire line areas to please be on alert.”
“Keep a ‘go’ bag ready, just in case you are called upon to evacuate.”
“Items to consider for a ‘go’ bag are any prescription medication and spectacles, important documentation, your cellphone and charger, a change of clothing, personal hygiene items and infant formula if you have young children in the home.”
“Please also have due regard for your pets, and make alternative sheltering arrangements for them if need be.”
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Residents of the south peninsula meanwhile have been receiving regular updates on the ground from local community groups.
An update sent out from Deep South Report 7 on WhatsApp at 15h30 on Friday informed residents that a situation “Code Red” has been called by the local Chief Fire Officer – meaning absolutely every available resource has been committed.
The message went on to say:
Aerial attacks have continued throughout the day, since first light and accompanied by the Air Tractor Water Bomber fixed-wing aircraft.
Even with the concerted effort, the fire line has continued to grow. We now have an expanded line that stretches from Partridge Point and Millers Point, all the way across and threatening Red Hill, Scarborough and Misty Cliffs. If it runs past Misty Cliffs and over the summit, Oceanview is then at risk.
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Much of the vegetation in this area of the park has not burned for a long time before, causing inferno pockets also heating the rocky substrate below. In some instances we are witnessing direct water bomb drops that extinguish the area, which then reignites several minutes later again.
Fortunately the wind is only slight at this stage, but where vegetation quickly ignites, it creates a huge thermal updraft that sucks in cooler air below, causing the air to swirl as the fires often veer in different directions.
Senior staff within the Fire and Rescue are strategizing on alternative options of attack. We are battling an expanded fire line of a mammoth scale and our focus must be on protecting life and property at this stage.
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We are asking the public to please remain out of deep South to help ease traffic congestion. Several road closures are in place. If you live in one of the areas under threat, it is suggested you pack a “Go-bag” in the meantime.
Important: if you are evacuating, be sure to turn off your mains electricity. If you use LP gas, be sure to shut off cylinder tanks and ensure warning signage is visible from the road for possible firefighters who may be approaching.
If you have alternative energy installations, you should disconnect your solar panels using your circuit breaker and remember, Lithium batteries become highly explosive when exposed to flames.
If your property does have access onto the mountainside, unlock any such gates and leave these open that firefighters can utilise.
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