Helicopters help contain massive veld fire
Helicopters help contain massive veld fire
29 December 2006
published by www.iol.co.za
South Africa — Firefighters are monitoring the slopes behind Ocean View in Kommetjie for possible flare-ups following a massive veld fire which blazed there on Thursday afternoon.
The fire broke out at about 12.50pm and burned above the Ocean View residential area. It was brought under control about an hour-and-a-half later.
Working on Fire’s (WoF) provincial coordinator Fransuliene Bosch said two water-bombing helicopters were dispatched from the Newlands base. “The fire was extensive and the helicopters battled to contain it. On the ground a group of WoF firefighters were sent to help about 30 other firefighters battle it,” she said.
A fire engine from Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), another two from the Roeland Street Fire Station and a water tanker were at thescene.
Philip Prins, manager of fire and technical services at TMNP, said although the blaze was massive it had not threatened any property.
“Luckily there was a light north-westerly wind blowing and it helped to push the fire up the slopes and away from buildings and houses.
“Firefighters also monitored the fire line very carefully in case the wind changed. It’s very lucky for us no strong winds were blowing,” he said.
Prins said no injuries were reported and the cause of the fire was still to be determined.
