Residents risk lives to help fire victims
FROM the ashes of a devastating fire which wreaked havoc in Plettenberg Bay this week rose a community of heroes who put their lives on the line to help fight the blaze.
Residents not only helped battle the fire, which destroyed several homes and burnt through 1 500ha of land, but also ensured those fighting it had the necessary equipment, food and drink to keep going.
They also assisted in evacuations of other residents and animals in the fire’s path and ensured that the displaced had a roof over their heads.
The fire, which first broke out on Friday on the Old Plett Timbers property in Wittedrift, was contained on Monday, but flared up again late on Tuesday due to the dry and windy conditions.
It destroyed at least three homes and several Wittedrift residents had to be evacuated.
The fire was finally contained after efforts by several role players, including the fire services, Working on Fire crew, George fire services and the Plett South Fire Management Unit.
Plett resident Mariella Rossi, who had to evacuate her home and also pack up her shop, said while the fire was a horrific experience she had been so touched by the strangers – now friends – who had sacrificed their safety and time to assist those in need.
Rossi said her family had been worried about the fire most of the day, but by 5.30pm they were forced to evacuate their Wittedrift home.
“The wall of flames was just suddenly upon us,” Rossi said.
She had to choose what belongings she wanted to save, and suddenly people she did not know were in her home ready to assist.
“An Australian man stood there and asked what he could help with. I’ve never seen him in my life, but I’m so thankful for him and all those like him who came to help,” she said.
Rossi and her family’s home narrowly escaped the flames.
But then, at about 8pm, she had to rush to her shop at the Old Nick complex on the N2 just outside Plett.
The flames were just metres away from the property.
“There, again, strangers with vehicles stood ready to help me get my stock out safely.”
Some of the unsung heroes of the blaze were a group of six active members of the Plett South Fire Management Unit, who not only assist in fighting fires without remuneration but also use their own vehicles and equipment in their efforts.
Plett South FMU member Steve Ritky said he had been overwhelmed by the support of the community.
“The fire was really bad on Tuesday, but thanks to small miracles we made it through.”
Plett Tourism spokesman Patty Butterworth said the Plettenberg Bay community had rallied not only to bring the fire under control, but also to assist those who were lending a hand.
“From animals to homes and memories to individual lives, the fire brigade and volunteers from all areas worked tirelessly together to try to keep everyone safe.”
Yesterday, residents started a campaign to gather food items, clothing, household goods and money to assist those affected by the fire.
Working on Fire spokeswoman Lauren Howard said Bitou fire services and WoF firefighters had immediately started mop-up operations and continued to monitor the fire.