All hands on deck to assist with Bree Street explosion
SCP Security joined others who all rushed to the scene to assist with crowd control, securing the site and supporting police as the city reeled from the blast.
SCP Security leapt into action when they were asked to assist with the Bree Street explosion scene.
Clive Maher who owns SCP and is a former police officer and flying squad member said, “We were asked to help by Johannesburg Central Station Commander Brigadier Irvin Perumal and of course we did.”
“Several SCP vehicles and responders rushed to the scene joined by Fairland CPF member Bhaai Cassim.”
“At a time like that, nobody worries about what might happen as we are all trained and experienced to handle tricky situations. I also know that the disaster management teams would not have allowed us near the site if they felt the gas people could smell was a known threat to the health of first responders,” said Maher.
It was a catastrophic event with a massive impact.
SCP’s Gerda Lourens said on arrival that, “A command centre was quickly established at the Mary Fitzgerald Square nearby to coordinate emergency response efforts between the city and private entities.”
“As the incident unfolded, the reality of the situation became apparent, and the magnitude of the disaster was evident. The bravery and dedication of EMS, disaster management staff, law enforcement, and volunteers highlighted the importance of preparedness and unity in the face of emergencies.”
She says, “We conducted another sweep of the area at midnight. The smell of gas was strong leading to heightened concerns for the public and responders. We all proceeded with caution and prioritized the evacuation and clearing of the area surrounding the explosion site.”
At a time like this, Maher says, “It was a privilege to be able to support disaster management teams and other entities in responding to this terrible event.”
With this and other unusual events, he stresses the importance of educating the public not to endanger themselves or become a hindrance to officials carrying out their work. “Be it crime scenes, car crashes or even explosions, please do not take this as an opportunity to get a good photo or video as you might put yourselves in danger and will make the work of officials more difficult.”
Lourens commented that “The incident raised significant questions about the city’s disaster preparedness. It was a testing moment to evaluate if Johannesburg was adequately equipped to handle such catastrophic events. The response from various private entities, civilian volunteers, and law enforcement was commendable, demonstrating a willingness to step up during emergencies.”
“Was the explosion a result of negligence or an unforeseen accident? A suggestion for the future is a proper review of our disaster plans. We must have dry runs and regular drills, equipment updates, and better inter-agency coordination. It’s essential elements to reinforce the city’s disaster preparedness.”
Maher says they will continue to assist in whichever way is useful in the coming days and will regardless support those who have been evacuated with relief packages. “Roosevelt Fire Department and Let’s Work have already begun collecting food, water and blankets which we are distributing to various centres to be handed out to those in need.”
“Thank you as always to our kind and generous local businesses and community who always step forward to assist those who need help.”
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