A fire which broke out in Zesfontein on Wednesday (September 19) was contained by about 100 brave community members.
Five people were casualties in the fire with one person sustaining burns resulting in hospitalisation.
The blaze, situated at Eastlands Lifestyle Estate, North of Marister, Leopard and Dassie roads, occurred at around 11am.
Alan Mallinick, who is one of the spearhead forces of the community network, said the fire started at the Eastlands Lifestyle Estate in the new phase being constructed on the eastern side, inside the boundary wall.
“Whatever was burning got through the drainage holes at the bottom of the wall into the veld and the winds then carried it further,” said Mallinick.
“There were extreme wind conditions that made the fire nearly impossible to control.”
Livestock, domestic pets and wildlife were also victims of the inferno as the area is home to an agricultural zoning.
According to Mallinick, multiple losses occurred include:
- 4×4 Bakkie
- Ancillary equipment in the vehicle
- Trailer mounted fire fighting water bowser and high pressure pump
- Multiple radios (UHF transceivers)
- Hundreds of acres of grazing
- Fencing – conventional and electric
- Clothing and shoes
- Loss of income
“In simple monetary terms, hundreds of thousands of rands has been lost,” he said.
The estimated 100 individuals who were involved in containing the fire were community members at various levels of engagement.
Mallinick said the dousing of the fire was mainly due to community efforts, although the fire department did attend to the scene.
“I have met with a trustee at Eastlands and they will contact their insurance company to arrange an assessment and discussion with us with the aim being to resolve the matter amicably,” he said.
Members of the public who would like to assist with the medical bills or damages incurred can contact Mallinick on 079 505 8348 or Vanessa Davis on 082 708 1228
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