JUST IN: Bird Sanctuary catches fire
The local fire department, park workers, paramedics, the municipality and even members of the public jumped in to put a stop to a fire at the local bird sanctuary earlier today.
Arbor Day celebrations at the local bird sanctuary are in slight jeopardy after parts of the sanctuary caught fire at about noon on Thursday, 24 August.
Although the exact extent of the damage is unknown at this stage, site supervisor Chané Henley told the Herald on scene, “The fire went into the reeds and a part of the deck in the park,” She believes a cigarette was the cause of the fire. She said it started in Wol Street in Helikon Park and that a strong wind caused the fire to move into the park.
Community members, ER24 paramedics, members of the municipality and park workers from the park rushed with water and other equipment to get the fire under control. The local fire brigade arrived shortly after, and took control of the situation. However, they did not want to be photographed.
Also Read: #ThrowBackThursday: Helikonpark Bird Sanctuary revisited
According to Henley, the fire is very bad for the park and will have an impact on the Arbor Day that will take place on 7 September at the park.
Arbor Day is a holiday in which individuals and groups are encouraged to plant trees.
In October 2015, the park also caught fire.
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