Fire leaves 120 people homeless in Langa

An inferno was reported at 23:45 on Saturday, 30 March 2013 at Lerotholi Avenue in Langa.

Upon arrival of the firefighters it was established that shacks were engulfed with flames.

The blaze destroyed 31 shacks leaving 120 people displaced. All persons were accounted for and no injuries were sustained.

The City’s disaster response teams assisted the fire victims with the supply of food parcels, blankets, baby packs, clothing and building material.

The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre encourages residents to be fire safe when working with open flames. When going to bed, residents should isolate electrical devices and extinguish gas burners, candles, lamps and paraffin stoves in order to prevent fires.

For more information on how to prevent fires please visit City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre on www.capetown.gov.za on www.capetown.gov.za/disaster.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town



Source : Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Strong winds wreaks havoc – trees uprooted across Cape Town

Yesterday the gale force winds that were experienced in Cape Town wreaked havoc.

GARDENS: The winds have blown down trees at the Mount Nelson Hotel, Orange Street in Gardens.

BERGVLIET: A tree had fallen resulting in the obstruction of traffic adjacent to 13 Fountain Road, Bergvliet.

OTTERY: A tree was blown down touching on overhead electricity wires resulting in arching at 1 Wegner Avenue, Ottery.

CONSTANTIA: The wind blown down branches and a tree onto the roadway causing traffic congestion at 1 Dreyer Close, Constantia.

CONSTANTIA: A tree standing on the greenbelt has fallen over that resulted in damaging a boundary wall and an electric fence. The City of Cape Town will be clearing the area today as the owner was not present to gain access to the premises.

TOKAI: A tree fell over obstructing the roadway near 47 Zwaanswyk Road, Tokai.

The City’s law enforcement authorities closed off the roadways and redirected traffic to make use of alternative routes in the interest of public safety.

The standby teams of the City’s Parks Department were activated that cleared up the branches blown down and trees that were fallen.

In another incident a wendy house collapsed due to strong winds at St Yusuf Street Macassar yesterday afternoon. The City’s disaster response teams assisted the family consisting of 3 adults and 1 child with food parcels, clothing, blankets and building material.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Strong winds render scaffolding of Cape Town’s tallest skyscraper unstable

At 17:30 on Saturday, 30 March 2013 numerous reports were received from eyewitnesses regarding scaffolding becoming unstable at the Portside building in the Cape Town CBD.

Upon arrival of the City’s disaster response teams and the building inspectorate it was established that the scaffolding on the construction site has fallen to the ground.

The City’s law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area surrounding the construction site in the interest of public safety.

The City’s building inspectorate has ordered the contractors, Murray & Roberts, to effect emergency repairs and stabilise the site without delay due to gale force winds that were experienced.

The Portside building currently under construction bordering Buitengracht, Hans Strijdom, Bree and Mechau Street, will be Cape Town’s newest and tallest skyscraper.

The building will be featuring 32 floors, over 52,000 m² of office space; 1,200 m² of retail and banking space, easily accessible from all sides on the ground level, and 1,382 parking bays.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town



Source: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

“Good Friday” fires result into misery for Cape Town families – over 100 people homeless

KALKFONTEIN: A blaze occurred at 18:56 on Friday, 29 March 2013 at Elmaree Street in Kalkfontein. Firefighters from Kuils River, Belhar, Strand, Bellville, Lansdowne, Mfuleni, Goodwood, Ottery; and seasonal firefighters on standby at the Epping Fire Training Academy were dispatched to the incident. The blaze destroyed 21 shacks that spread and affected 1 formal dwelling. The firefighters managed to extinguish the inferno at 20:30 and made the area safe.

GUULETHU: A fire occurred at 20:45 on Friday, 29 March 2013 at the Lusaka Informal Settlement situated off Old Klipfontein Road, in Gugulethu. The City dispatched firefighters from the Lansdowne Road, Gugulethu, Strand, Belhar and Gugulethu fire stations that arrived at 20:52. The firefighters brought the fire under control at within 17 minutes within 17 minutes [21:08] from their time off arrival. The fire destroyed 4 informal shacks that were backyard dwellings. Prior to the arrival of the emergency crews the occupants attempted to extinguish the blaze with buckets of water. It is suspected that the fire was started from a short circuit in electrical wiring insulation.

FISANTEKRAAL: At 21:42 on Friday, 29 March 2013 a fire occurred at the Fisantekraal Informal Settlement area near Durbanville. Firefighters from Kraaifontein, Durbanville, Milnerton, Goodwood, Brackenfell, Bellville stations were dispatched to the incident. The inferno destroyed 11 shacks and left 41 people displaced that include 25 adults and 16 children. It is suspected that the fire was caused by a lighted paraffin stove that overturned and ignited.

MASIPHUMELELE: At 23:59 on Friday, 29 March 2013 a fire was reported at Site 5: Masiphumelele Informal Settlement, c/o Kanana and Masibolo Streets. Firefighters from Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, Constantia, Lakeside and Ottery were dispatched to the scene and brought the fire under control at 01:01 this morning [Saturday, 30 March 2013]. The fire destroyed 25 shacks that spread and also destroyed 3 formal houses. This morning 58 adults and 2 babies were left displaced following the fire. One adult female suffered smoke inhalation and was provided with treatment by paramedics on-scene. One adult male that was standing on a roof top of a shack fell – it is suspected that he fractured his ankle and was transported to False Bay Hospital for further medical treatment. The firefighters brought the fire under control and extinguish it at 02:40 this morning [Saturday, 30 March 2013]. As a result 60 people were left homeless (58 adults and 2 babies). It is suspected that the cause of the fire was as a result of open flames overturning and igniting bedding.

Disaster response teams at hand

The City’s disaster response teams rushed into action and assisted the fire victims with the supply of food parcels, blankets, baby packs, clothing and building material.

The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre encourages residents to be fire safe when working with open flames. When going to bed, residents should isolate electrical devices and extinguish gas burners, candles, lamps and paraffin stoves in order to prevent fires.

For more information on how to prevent fires please visit City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre on www.capetown.gov.za on www.capetown.gov.za/disaster.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Source: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Renewed appeal to public to stay clear of the Seli 1 wreck

The City of Cape Town would like to restate its appeal to the citizens of Cape Town that they keep well clear of the weakened Seli 1 wreck off the coast in Table Bay. Given that the wreck has been substantially weakened, it constitutes a danger and is therefore unsafe.

The public is warned not to approach within 100 metres of the wreck.

The weakening of the wreck was a planned outcome of the operation, and was intended to pave the way for ocean forces to collapse the wreck onto the seabed during the coming winter.

The wreck will be continuously monitored to determine if the objectives of the operation have been met, and whether any further work is required.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For operational enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

City appeals to residents to be safe over the Easter Weekend and school holidays

The City of Cape Town appeals to residents to look after both their own safety and the safety of others during the Easter weekend’s festivities and the school holidays.

All Capetonians are reminded that they can call the 107 number in the event of any life and/or property – threatening emergencies. By dialling this number you are able to gain access to the Metro Police, Fire Services, Ambulance, Traffic Services as well as the City’s Disaster Risk Management Department.

The 107 Public Emergency Communication Centre will be on standby to receive calls on the 107 number (from a Telkom landline) and on 021 480 7700 from a cell phone (enter the number on your cell phone as a speed dial).

Thus far this week, the City of Cape Town’s Metro Police has embarked on a safety awareness campaign. Officers have been deployed across the city with the focus on driver and vehicle fitness. This increased vigilance will continue over the long weekend, and no tolerance will be shown to offenders.

“I would like to urge all motorists to drink responsibly and to abstain from driving while intoxicated,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith. “Remember it is not just your own life you are gambling with when you get behind the wheel after having one too many.”

“Furthermore, all residents are reminded that no drinking of alcoholic beverages will be permitted on our beaches. Beach safety is of paramount importance, and we request the cooperation of residents in preventing unnecessary injury and death in our city over the long weekend,” he added.

The City’s Fire and Rescue Services would also like to appeal to residents to remain aware of the dangers posed by electricity, paraffin and open flames.

The following tips will help keep you and your family safe from fire

Using electricity safely

• Do not make illegal electrical connections as they contribute towards fires
• Do not overload your electrical circuits – in other words, don’t keep more than four plugs on one extension (with your heater, your kettle, your stove…)
• Service your electrical components regularly and replace faulty ones
• Switch off all electrical appliances at the wall at night or when leaving your home
• When you are cooking (on any sort of stove, gas, electric or paraffin), do not leave the pot on the stove unattended
• Electrical connections must be professionally installed and properly earthed with the correct circuit breakers installed

Using paraffin safely

• Always handle paraffin with extreme care, as it is poisonous and can burn your skin even if unlit. Paraffin is often sold in containers contaminated with chemicals such as petrol, or mixed with methylated spirits. This can cause it to flare dangerously or even explode
• Paraffin can cause severe burns, and paraffin stoves that are knocked over or explode are a major cause of injuries and fires in informal settlements. Paraffin also emits harmful fumes when ignited
• Never leave a paraffin appliance unattended. It only takes a second for a gust of wind, pet or child to knock over a light or stove
• Make sure paraffin appliances are on a flat, firm surface
• Do not put a cloth under a paraffin appliance. A child or pet could pull the trailing end and the cloth will then burn, fuelling the fire
• Always have a bucket of sand nearby when using a paraffin appliance. Water will not extinguish a paraffin fire and can make matters worse by spreading the flames. Paraffin fires can only be extinguished using sand or a fire extinguisher

Safety around an open flame

• Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
• Cut candles in half to prevent them falling over – and use a candle holder
• Do not smoke in bed

How to prevent informal settlement fires

• Build dwellings a good distance (at least 3 m) apart to prevent fires from spreading. Make sure this space is kept open
• Keep a close eye on paraffin stoves. Don't cook near a window with a curtain
• Make sure the stove doesn't fall over, which may burn children or cause a fire
• Make sure candles are secure and can't fall over. Don't go to sleep with candles still burning
• Teach children about the dangers of fire
• Watch out for discarded cigarette butts
• Be aware of the dangers of illegal and faulty electricity connections, which also cause fires
• Keep a bucket handy to fill with water so that you can extinguish flames easily
• Keep a bucket of sand available to put out paraffin fires
• Keep roads and access to dwellings clear at all times
• Do not block roads with possessions when there is a fire
• Do not prevent or disrupt the work of fire crews fighting fires

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

20 pilot whales washed ashore at Noordhoek – 14 dead and 6 rescued

At approximately 07:00 this morning [Sunday, 24 March 2013] the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre received numerous calls from members of the public that whales has washed ashore at Long Beach in Kommetjie.

Upon arrival by the authorities it was found that 20 pilot whales measuring between 3 to 4 metres have washed ashore and it was not clear for how long they were beached. These species can measure from three to six metres long and weigh anywhere between a thousand and two thousand kilos.

During this morning the NSRI successfully rescued 1 whale by putting it back into the water that swam free that was not spotted thereafter.

Shortly thereafter 4 whales were declared deceased and another whale by mid-day during the rescue efforts.

The authorities successfully rescued another 5 whales that were transported from Long Beach to the Simon’s Town Naval Base.

The SA Navy assisted by taking the 5 whales from the Simon’s Town Naval Base five nautical miles off-shore. Two whales were conveyed on-board the SAS Indlovu tugboat; and the other three were loaded on-board the SAS Tshuduku.

Unfortunately the scientists from the Department of Environmental Affairs determined that nine (9) pilot whales had to be euthanized as their condition was very critical and there was no hope for survival.

These marine mammals were distressed and were breathing very rapidly. The marine scientists assessed the animals and indicated that they were very dehydrated. Many of them sustained pressure injuries to their internal organs due to been out of the water for a considerable amount of time. Their conditions deteriorated by them not been in the water and not been buoyant resulting suffocation as they were lying on their organs due to their weight.

After 18:00 this evening the SA Navy assisted the City of Cape Town and the Department of Environmental Affairs to float these marine mammals by taking them off-shore in deeper water with the intent that they will survive.

The SA Navy will conduct routine patrols with its naval watercraft throughout the night and at first light tomorrow morning to establish whether the rescue operation was successful or whether the whales has beached again.

Whale beaching’s not uncommon along the South African coast and it is a world-wide phenomenon that occurs when whales get disoriented and are unable to swim back into deep water.

Another reason why they strand is when a pod follows a sick or injured whale into the shallows resulting in them getting stranded.

The City of Cape Town officials that include the Environmental Resource Management Department; Solid Waste Management; Fleet and Mechanical Services; Law Enforcement and Specialised Services and Metropolitan Police Department took quick charge over the incident under the direction of the Disaster Risk Management Centre.

The City of Cape Town was assisted by the Department of Environmental Affairs; SA Navy; the South African Police Services; the Table Mountain National Park, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI); The Shark Spotter Programme; the SPCA; small holding farmers and numerous other volunteer and private organisations.

The City of Cape Town is also very pleased with the overwhelming assistance by the general public that assisted with watering the whales and assisting when the loading of the marine mammals.

Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, the City’s Deputy Head of Disaster Risk Management Centre said “that the entire operation was very well managed in rescuing some of the whales that could be saved”.

The scientists from the Oceans & Coast Branch of the Department of Environmental Affairs took samples of the deceased marine mammals to conduct a necropsy [post-portem] to establish the cause of death.

The carcasses were transported to the Vissershok Landfill Site by the City’s Solid Waste Management Department for disposal.

Pictures loading the rescued pilot whales at Simon’s Town Naval Base onto tug boats and releasing them 5 nautical miles off-shore. - Bruce Sutherland, Principal Photographer, City of Cape Town.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Media enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Mayor De Lille launches First Chaplaincy Alert Programme for uniformed staff in Western Cape

The City of Cape Town will launch the Chaplains Alert Western Cape programme on Saturday 23 March 2013. This programme is the first such initiative aimed at supporting traumatised uniformed staff members without charge to them.

Thirty chaplains will volunteer their time to serve emergency and disaster management personnel from the City of Cape Town and the broader Western Cape Province. The programme will also provide assistance to law enforcement agencies and private ambulance services in the Western Cape; and all those who are in the line of duty confronted with the trauma of fire, death, crime, motor vehicle accidents and disasters on a daily basis.

The Executive Mayor will deliver a keynote address and unveil the logo for the Chaplains Alert Western Cape Programme.

Date: Saturday 23 March 2013
Time: 16:00
Venue: City Emergency Services Headquarters, Goodwood Fire Station, c/o Frans Conradie & Hugo Street, Goodwood

The chaplains are trained to render professional trauma support, pastoral care and counselling.

The Chaplaincy will also assist traumatised patients and members of the public, besides the role that it will play to the emergency and disaster management personnel.

The purpose of the Chaplaincy is to bring comfort, consolation and pastoral care to all persons by nurturing the living, caring for the vulnerable, as well as administering death notification.

Other services provided to the uniformed staff members by the Chaplaincy are: spiritual guidance, support and ministry by visiting hospitalised members.

In addition other services such as marital counselling, wedding services, memorial and funeral services; prayer meetings; assistance with personal problems; addictions and setbacks, critical incident stress mitigation and management; debriefings; station visits; HIV/AIDS awareness and counselling amongst other will be provided.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For operational enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Photos: South African Navy completes initial wreck reduction efforts

The Joint Multi-agency Task Team monitoring the Seli 1 wreck reduction process has announced that the Operational Diving Team (ODT) of the South African Navy has completed the initial wreck reduction efforts.

While the wreck is still visible, significant progress has been made in weakening its structure and it is expected that it is now sufficiently weakened to enable the ocean forces to collapse it onto the seabed during the upcoming winter, as originally intended.

The ODT in conjunction with the Department of Transport will conduct further assessments of the wreck to assist the Task Team in determining if the objectives of the operation have been met and whether any further work is required. Further decisions will then be made in this regard.

The Task Team reported that minimal quantities of oil released from the wreck were promptly contained and dealt with. In addition, marine life was largely unaffected by the operation. Clean-up contingency measures will remain in place.

Given that the wreck has been substantially weakened, it constitutes a danger and is therefore unsafe to the public. The public is required to remain clear of the wreck at all times.

The public will be kept updated of further developments.

The Task Team would like to thank the residents of Table View and the general public for their cooperation during the operation.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For operational enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

SEA RESCUE – STILL BAY – Wednesday, 20th March, 2013. Fishing boat sinks, all crew rescued

Enrico Menezies, NSRI Still Bay station commander, said:

"At 18h40 (Wednesday, 20th March) NSRI Still Bay volunteer sea rescue duty crew were activated by the Transnet National Ports Authority following a request for assistance from the 26 foot commercial fishing boat DANELLA II, with 7 local crewmen onboard, reporting to be taking water through a hole in midships 44 nautical miles South West of Still Bay, deep-sea between Still Bay and Witsand at Alpha Bunker (fishing grounds).

"DANELLA II had launched from Still Bay to go fishing deep-sea at Alpha Bunker, accompanied by two fellow boats, but on arrival at the fishing grounds they found that they were taking water through a hole in midships. The hole had appeared from unknown causes.

"Water intake through the hole could only be partially stemmed with the boat underway and while they began to pump water out of the boat, using water pumps, they raised the alarm by calling Telkom Maritime Radio Services on the emergency radio frequency requesting assistance.

"DANELLA II had begun heading towards Still Bay while NSRI Still Bay activated a rescue effort. The skipper and crew were fighting to save their boat pumping water out while making best speed towards Still Bay.

"Our NSRI Still Bay volunteer sea rescue duty crew launched our sea rescue craft SPIRIT OF ST FRANCIS and responded to rendezvous with the DANELLA II and NSRI Witsand and NSRI AGULHAS, the SA Police Services and the WC Government Health EMS were placed on alert.

"Telkom Maritime Radio Services remained in radio contact with DANELLA II while continuing to plot her course ensuring that the sea rescue craft rendezvoused with her and maintaining radio communications during the rescue operation.

"On arrival on-scene, at 21h00, 32 nautical miles South West of Still Bay, we found DANELLA II heavy in the water in choppy seas and initially 4 of the 7 crew were taken off the casualty boat (transferred onto our sea rescue craft) to lighten the casualty boat and we continued to assist to pump water out.

"We escorted DANELLA II towards Still Bay for a further 5 nautical miles but the hole had appeared to get larger and the casualty boat was getting very heavy in the water, despite the best efforts to pump water out of the casualty boat and trying to get her safely to shore, and the decision was taken by the casualty boat skipper to abandon ship.

"The skipper of DANELLA II, Anthony Richards, from Still Bay, had made a massive effort to save his boat while ensuring the safety of his crew.
"The skipper realizing that a decision would have to be made on wether to try to continue on towards Still Bay or abandon his boat.

"It was an emotional moment when the decision to abandon ship came from the skipper and 5 minutes after the remaining 3 crew members were safely taken off the casualty boat she filled with water and sunk. Only her bow remains out of the water, with an air pocket trapped in the bow, and we anchored the casualty boat to prevent her from drifting.

"We remained on the scene for a further 15 minutes but the casualty boat did not sink completely. 28 nautical miles South West of Still Bay only a small section of the bow remains above of water.

"Telkom Maritime Radio Services are broadcasting a navigational warning to vessels in the area warning of the navigational hazard.

"All 7 crew members of the casualty boat were brought safely ashore to Still Bay aboard our sea rescue craft. There were no injuries. The rescue operation was completed at 23h45.

"The owners have not decided if a salvage operation will be attempted or if the semi sunk casualty boat will be scuttled at sea and it is unknown at this stage if the casualty boat has perhaps now sunk completely."


-ENDS-


Released by:


Craig Lambinon
Sea Rescue Communications

City enacts mutual aid agreement to assist with Stellenbosch fire disaster

The City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Services was requested to provide assistance in the early hours of this morning, 15 March 2013, following the fire that occurred after midnight at the Kayamandi informal settlement in Stellenbosch.

The City dispatched three fire engines, three water tankers, and a service vehicle from the following fire stations: Kraaifontein, Goodwood, Milnerton, Bellville, Belhar and Kuils River.

At 05:49 this morning the Fire and Rescue Services of the Cape Winelands, Drakenstein and the City of Cape Town municipalities surrounded the fire and prevented it from spreading.

The Executive Mayor of Stellenbosch, Councillor Conrad Sidego, called upon the City of Cape Town to assist with disaster relief due to its specialised knowledge and capacity in dealing with large-scale incidents of this nature. The City deployed officers from its Disaster Risk Management Centre to assist with the coordination of logistical arrangements for the provision of humanitarian relief aid to the victims.

The blaze destroyed approximately 600 structures leaving over 2 500 people homeless. The authorities have confirmed that two adult males lost their lives.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, but it is suspected that it started as a result of an unattended paraffin stove in one of the informal structures.

The staff from the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre will remain in Stellenbosch until the situation has been stablised.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

Source: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

City authorities clean up 5 tons of dead fish in Milnerton – averts environmental threat

 

The City of Cape Town was working with national and provincial authorities to remove 5 tons of fish found in the Milnerton area.

The dead mullets [commonly known as harders] were found washed ashore along the shoreline between the Lagoon Beach river mouth and the Milnerton Lighthouse as early as of Friday.

The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre together with its staff from the Environmental Resource Management; and Water and Sanitation Departments officials, who are responsible for maintaining the shoreline were dispatched to the scene to assess the impact.

The pollution control officers from the Oceans & Coast Branch of the National Department of Environmental Affairs also investigated whether the mortality was caused by any potential oil leak emanating from the Seli 1 shipwreck that is in close proximity in Table View. The investigation revealed that the cause of death could not be associated with the wreck reduction efforts undertaken by the SA Navy.

Dr Joy Leaner, the Director: Pollution Management (Air Quality, Pollution and Chemicals Management) from the Western Cape Government: Department Environmental Affairs and Development Planning also inspected the area.

The City’s Law Enforcement and Specialised Services cordoned off the area and prevented the bathers and the general public from picking up the fish for potential consumption.

At this it is not yet clear what caused the fish mortality, however it is suspected that it is linked to the high temperatures (high 20 and 30 degrees) that were experienced this past week across the Cape Peninsula.

It is suspected that the fish die off can be as a consequence of these conditions resulting in not enough oxygen in the water for the fish outside their realm of tolerance.

Prior to the removal of the dead fish for disposal the City of Cape Town took samples for analyses so that a clear picture can be obtained of what caused the fish mortality.

Today (Sunday) the City’s disaster response teams were assisted by staff from the Solid Waste Management Department removing the dead mullets from the shoreline whereafter it was disposed of at the Vissershok Landfill Site.

The swift response by the authorities averted the incident constitute an environmental threat to the general public and the environment.

Photo captions:

Staff of the City’s Solid Waste Management Department removes dead mullets between the Lagoon Beach river mouth and the Milnerton Lighthouse.

The following file is available for download: http://web.capetown.gov.za/Bigfiles/A780957065/Fish%20Die%20Off%20Milnerton.zip.

It will be available until 08h00 on Saturday, 23 March 2013.

End


Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town



Source : Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Seli 1 ship wreck reduction efforts to resume next week

The South African Navy’s Operational Diving Team will resume the wreck reduction efforts in respect of the Seli 1 along the coastline of Table View as from Monday 18 March 2013.

The team will seek to force their way through the hull of the wreck in a bid to release the remaining oil that is in the containment area.

The divers will attempt to peel the hull away, using an inflatable raft to get to the blast points and continue their efforts by employing precision blow-cutting equipment to further weaken the structure of the wreck.

At this stage, the limited oil spills that have occurred have been cleared up and no marine life has been affected.

The City of Cape Town and the Department of Environmental Affairs have instituted contingency measures to deal with any oil pollution incidents along the coastline and off-shore.

The prohibition to the general public remains in place and law enforcement agencies will remain on scene, cordoning off the area.

Members of the public are not allowed to access the wreck under any circumstances as the structure has been significantly weakened by means of the wreck reduction operations.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For Operational enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Seli 1 wreck reduction attempt set to take place next week

A wreck reduction process in respect of the stranded Seli 1 vessel is, subject to favourable weather conditions, set to commence during the week of 11 March 2013.

The South African Navy, who have recently carried out an investigation and survey of the wreck, have been enlisted by The Department of Transport to undertake the operation. Assistance in the form of resources and manpower will also be provided by the City of Cape Town, the South African Maritime Safety Authority and the Department of Environmental Affairs.

The wreck reduction, planned and undertaken through a multi-agency Task Team, is intended to strategically weaken the wreck structure and, with the help of the ocean forces, collapse it onto the seabed.

Remedial and protective measures are being put in place by the Joint Task Team to manage and mitigate the release of any oils or pollutants, and the impact of this on the coastline and marine life. All risks with regards to oil pollution and the sensitive marine environment have been considered. Standby teams to respond to any oil pollution or oiling of seabirds will be in place, and SANCCOB and the Animal Demography Unit at the University of Cape Town have been engaged as part of the process.

The complete collapsing of the wreck in this manner and the release of remaining pollutants under controlled conditions will likely remove all remaining negative impacts of the Seli 1 on our coastline. Subsequent to the operation, however, an assessment will be undertaken to determine if any further work is required.

On 7 September 2009 the Seli 1 experienced engine problems and sought refuge in Table Bay. A snapped anchor chain compounded with reduced engine power and stormy weather conditions culminated in the vessel grounding off the Table View Beach shortly before midnight.

Since the stranding, the vessel has posed several risks as evident from the oil slicks experienced, the contamination of marine life and the pollution of the shoreline. The presence of the vessel has also resulted in the altering of the Table Bay coastline by means of accretion and erosion. The vessel also poses a risk to recreational beach users, especially kite surfers.

The Joint Task Team is pleased that the South African Navy will commence the wreck reduction process before the 2013 winter.

“It is extremely significant that this process will be commencing before the winter period, which in all likelihood would result in further breakup of the vessel, increased oil spills and oil contamination. In addition, the sea conditions during winter are such that the operation would not be viable,” said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.

The public are required to adhere to the following safety measures as from 11 March 2013 until further advised:

· The entire beach and dune area opposite the wreck will be closed to the public and demarcated parking areas will also be off-limits;

· Recreational activities are not permitted;

· An area of approximately 1000m surrounding the wreck will be off-limits to all vessels and water users during the operation. Active policing of the off-limits area will be in force by various law enforcement agencies; and

· The airspace surrounding the wreck is prohibited and no aircraft are allowed to operate.

Updates on the wreck reduction will be issued and the public will be informed as to when the area is re-opened for recreation.

The City is endeavouring to ensure that the impact to residents is minimised. The cooperation and assistance of the public will be greatly appreciated.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For Operational enquiries: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

City advises public of a planned maritime disaster exercise on Tuesday

The City of Cape Town wishes to inform residents that a simulated major cruise ship ‘accident’ close to the Port of Cape Town will be conducted on Tuesday 12 March 2013.

The exercise will test the preparedness and ability of the authorities and related agencies to respond to an incident involving an international cruise ship running aground.

Code-named ‘Beachy’, the joint scenario exercise will be led by the City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre.

The armed forces will be commanded by the South African National Defence Force and will include the SA Navy, SA Air Force and the SA Army.

The planned scenario will involve the SAS Spioenkop, a frigate ‘on-loan’ from the SA Navy, being simulated as a cruise liner carrying 106 passengers and crew, on her voyage around the coastline of South Africa to Durban.

The accident will take place off-shore from the Mouille Point Lighthouse and a verification and mass-care centre will be established at the Cape Town Stadium to assist survivors of the cruise liner disaster.

Residents living in the vicinity are alerted that the exercise will involve a large contingent of armed forces, law enforcement agencies and emergency and disaster management personnel.

Helicopters from the SA Air Force and the Western Cape Government Health: Emergency Medical Services will be utilised to evacuate ‘casualties’ from the ship.

The foreign representation in Cape Town [heads of diplomatic missions locally] of France, Britain, United States of America, Netherlands and Germany will also participate in the exercise as part of the protocol in dealing with foreign nationals in distress.

The operation will involve, the City of Cape Town, the National Ports Authority of South Africa, South African Maritime Safety Authority [SAMSA], Western Cape Government: Department of Health: Emergency Medical Services, South African Police Services, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and various other roleplayers.

Date: Tuesday 12 March 2013
Time: 07:00 – 13:00
Venue: Mouille Point Lighthouse, Beach Road and the Cape Town Stadium

All media are welcome to attend and observe.

End

Issued by: Integrated Strategic Communication and Branding Department, City of Cape Town

For operational enquiries:

Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Fires in Cape Town leaves 128 homeless over weekend

Over one hundreds persons were left homeless devastated

ELSIES RIVER: At 11:25 Saturday, 09 March 2013 a fire was reported at 10 Carra Street, Connaught Estate in Elsies River. Two fire engines and one rescue vehicle were dispatched to the incident from Belhar and Goodwood fire stations. The fire destroyed one wood and iron structure (backyard dwelling) at the rear of the formal house on enclosed grounds. Upon arrival of firefighters the structure was engulfed with flames and the personal belongings, furniture, appliances and bedding was completely destroyed. The blaze spread to the formal house and the firefighters averted the dwelling catching alight, Due to the intensity of the inferno the windows cracked and the kitchen door suffered slight fire damage. The five occupants residing in the backyard dwelling were left homeless. It is suspected that children entered the backyard dwelling without permission that started the fire. The incident is under investigation.

BLACKHEATH: At 00:44 on Sunday, 10 March 2013 the South African Police Services reported a fire in progress at the Happy Valley Informal Settlement, off Wimbledon Road in Blackheath. Three fire engines, 2 water tankers and 1 rescue vehicle were dispatched from Mfuleni, Kuils River, Strand and Belhar fire stations to the scene of incident. As firefighters approached the scene of the incident it was observed that smoke was billowing from a distance. At 00:49 upon arrival of the emergency crews the residents were evacuated from the structures to safety. The firefighters manage to extinguish at 02:09. The fire destroyed 7 shacks leaving 23 people displaced. One adult male that suffered burnwounds to his one shoulder and refused to be transported to hospital for medical treatment. It is suspected that a “gally” fire was left unattended that presumably caused the fire.

ATHLONE: At 08:46 on Sunday, 10 March 2013 an emergency call was reported for a house alight at 11 Ruby Crescent in Athlone. Shortly thereafter at 08:51 a member of the public reported that another fire was taking place near the Vygieskraal Stadium. At the same time the Fire & Rescue Services arrived and it was established that a fire was rapidly spreading in the informal settlement area situated at 8th Avenue in Athlone. As a result 20 shacks were destroyed and two low-cost housing dwellings were also affected as a result of the shacks been built in close proximity. A total of 100 persons were affected by the blaze. The shacks were built under the overhead powerlines that were also damaged. The City’s standby electricians effected emergency repairs to the supply in the area. It is suspected that one of the occupants of the shacks leaving a pot on a stove that resulted in the blaze.

Disaster response teams at hand

The City’s disaster response teams assisted the fire victims with the supply of food parcels, blankets, baby packs, clothing and building material.

The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre encourages residents to be fire safe when working with open flames. When going to bed, residents should isolate electrical devices and extinguish gas burners, candles, lamps and paraffin stoves in order to prevent fires.

For more information on how to prevent fires please visit City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre on www.capetown.gov.za on www.capetown.gov.za/disaster.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town



Source: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Du Noon fire victims devastated – 100 homeless

A fire was reported during the early hours of this morning [Saturday, 02 March 2013] at approximately at 00:23 at Dakela Informal Settlement, close to the N7 national road, near Milnerton.

The City’s Fire & Rescue Services dispatched fire engines and emergency services personnel without delay to the incident from the following fire stations: Milnerton, Melkbosstrand, Epping, Goodwood and Brooklyn.

Upon arrival by firefighters the wood and iron structures were engulfed with flames due to the strong south-easterly wind conditions that persist overnight and spread the blaze.

After three hours at approximately 03:22 firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze applying fire suppression.

The furnace destroyed 60 wooden and iron structures leaving 100 adults. No persons sustained any injuries.

This morning when the disaster response teams reassessed the area the affected fire victims were devastated.

The City’s disaster response teams will during the course of the day assist with the supply of food parcels, blankets, baby packs, clothing and building material.

At this stage the cause of the fire has not been determined – the local authorities will investigate the incident.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Media enquiries:

Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects and Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Fire in Langa leaves nearly 300 people homeless

At 09:25 today [Monday, 18 February 2013] the City’s surveillance centre noticed a blaze occurring at Zone 30, off Washing Drive in Langa.

The City’s Fire & Rescue Services dispatched fire engines and emergency services personnel without delay from the Epping, Gugulethu, Goodwood, Milnerton, Mfuleni and Bellville Fire Stations to the scene of incident.

At around 09:34 the first responding emergency vehicle arrival on-scene and at the time the inferno has already spread rapidly through the structures.

The blaze was intense and the standby seasonal firefighters were also activate and deployed to assist at the scene.

At approximately 14:09 the firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze and made the area safe.

The furnace destroyed 83 wooden and iron structures leaving 168 adults and 120 children homeless. No persons sustained any injuries.

The disaster response teams were activated that will assist with the supply of food parcels, blankets, baby packs, clothing and building material.

The cause of the fire has not been determined as yet and the local authorities will investigate the incident.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Media enquiries:

Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Man’s stark-naked body washes up on Camps Bay beach

At approximately 07:50 this morning [Sunday, 17 February 2013] a lady known as Helen Phillips noticed something floating on the water at Camps Bay beach. She could not immediately identify what exactly it was.

A few minutes thereafter a young female and her boyfriend came along and saw that it was a body floating on the water. The young man went into the water and pulled the body of the unidentified elderly man that is believed to be in his 70’s to the shore.

The local authorities immediately activated and dispatched emergency crews to the scene on incident.

At 08:26 the emergency personnel from Camps Bay Medics terminated their attempts to revive the man. The person was later declared deceased by the paramedics from the Western Cape Government: Department of Health [METRO Emergency Medical Services].

The City’s Law Enforcement and Specialised Services have established a crime scene after the stark-naked body was discovered at Camps Bay beach.

The City’s law enforcement officers inspected the surrounding area for any clothing or towels that could possibly belong to the deceased – however nothing was found.

It is not clear whether the deceased man was swimming at the location of discovery or whether the current washed him up from another point.

The incident was handed over the South African Police Services [SAPS] for investigation because of the suspicious nature of the case.

The incident is being considered an unexplained death.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Source: Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Authorities closes factory after explosion in Cape Town

The explosion that occurred at approximately 16:00 on Wednesday 13 February 2013 killed a technician [Martin O’Connor] that work on a compressor inside the Atlas Gardens Industrial Park at Contermanskloof after it exploded.

Saji Thekkemalayil Chandrasekharaan that hails from India that was working at the factory was airlifted and rushed to the Netcare Blaauwberg Hospital whereafter he later died of his injuries.

Two other persons Brandon Pretorius and Jean Rossouw that sustained serious injuries whose lower extremities were amputated are critical and remain in the intensive care unit at Milnerton Medi-Clinic.

Yesterday the scene was still close-off as the Forensic Pathology Service of the Western Cape Government: Department of Health was still clearing the area as body parts were scattered around.

The authorities regard this accident in a serious light and assembled a team of specialists from the City of Cape Town; Department of Labour and the South African Police Services to investigate the matter.

After the joint inspection that was conducted by the authorities yesterday a prohibition order was issued to the management that the facility will be shut-down.

The explosion also resulted in significance structural damages to the building caused by the impact of the explosion rendered by the building structural unsound. The City’s building inspectorate has issued a Section 12 Notice in terms of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, Act 103 of 1977 that emergency repair work be undertaken making the area safe.

The cause of the explosion remains unclear and the factory can only be opened once the investigation is completed by the relevant authorities.

End

Issued by: Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town

Media enquiries:


Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, Head: Systems Integration, Special Projects & Disaster Operations, Disaster Risk Management Centre, City of Cape Town