THE Crusaders Sports Club was a hive of excitement as the second Emergency Services Awareness Day kicked off on Saturday morning.
Residents showed up in droves to support the event, which was launched by The Law Enforcement Foundation with the intention of raising awareness of the often under-appreciated and unrecognized emergency services personnel.
One of the highlights of the day included the mock accident and rescue display. Locals watched in awe as emergency services raced to the ‘scene of an accident’ where they used the Jaws of Life to extricate the trapped commuter, stabalise him and transport him to a local hospital.
Some of the community’s youth were also able meet and greet their local heroes, while residents could also ask questions and interact with firefighters, police, paramedics and rescue and search members.
One of the founding members and Sunningdale resident Tyron Powell said he was thrilled with the community’s turnout.
“Last year we had over 4 500 people attending throughout the day and this year we are definitely seeing a lot more people supporting the initiative,” he said.
The SAPS Bomb Squad as well as the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) made their first appearance at the event.
“The day is mainly about raising awareness. People don’t always see what the police or emergency services personnel do and so sometimes they are under-appreciated,” he said.
Fellow foundation member, Gill Austin expained that the foundation was also formed as a means to combat crime.
“The group funds various crime prevention initiatives and works closely with the Durban North/Umhlanga CPF and the SAPS,” she said.
Check out our gallery of the day here.
