Cape Fires 2015
It is apparently 15 years since the last “big burn” in Cape Town.
We were fairly new to Cape Town in 2000 and were still trying to get used to the wind and wet weather. Wind because we stayed in the Northern Suburbs. Fires, no, but rain yes.
We empathized (remotely) with people in the Southern suburbs who were directly involved in the bad fires at that time.
Now in 2015, we know many more people in the Peninsula and are more familiar with all the areas, through our association with Traveltime & Time Out Ladies Club.
When the fires started we became acutely aware of who resided near the hot-spots and wondered whether they were safe or not. Modern technology allowed us to contact these people to ensure there was no imminent danger to them or their property and possessions.
But, fire loves wind and situations change very quickly, so our feeling of comfort turned into a stressful one when we couldn’t reach some of those previously spoken to. Fortunately through prompt action by the emergency services they were reached in time and moved to safer areas.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this disaster and our thanks go out to those who risked their lives to keep others safe. We salute you.
Brian & Carol Coombes