Wednesday 7 June will be a day that Knysna will never forget. This beautiful coastal town in the Garden Route, including Sedgefield, fell victim to fires which has left thousands of residents homeless, car-less and completely shell-shocked. Since Wednesday 7 June, firefighters, community members and helpers from all the neighbouring towns have been battling the flames and trying to save what they can.
Although the fires have subsided, the danger is not over yet… Please share the following information with all your friends and family.
Fire Evacuation Plan
In case of a fire, first assess the situation. If you have to flee immediately, do so. Your life and the lives of your loved ones are far more important than any possession. Smoke inhalation is also deadly, please do not underestimate it.
However, if it is possible, and the fire doesn’t pose an immediate threat to you and your family, these are the things you need to grab from your home:
- Passport and ID
- Insurance papers
- Policies and house documents, i.e. your Property Deed
- Clothing for one week
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Phone chargers
- Pet food and leashes
- Memories – pictures, hard drives, sentimental items, wedding rings and photo albums
People from all over the country have been doing their part to help the locals of Knysna by sending food parcels, water, blankets, animal food and clothes. DHL has drop off points situated all across the country and will assist in sending supplies to Knysna, George and surrounding areas. If you are able to help the Knysna fire victims, you can find DHL drop off points that are close to you below.
If you are able to make a donation, Miss South Africa, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, with support of Sun International and Cell C, is raising money for those who have lost everything in the Knysna fires. For more information on how you can help or make a donation, click here.
Your donations will be very much appreciated. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news, be sure to visit Aid for Knysna on Facebook.
Our condolences also go out to everyone who have lost homes and loved ones. We are extremely proud of the brave firefighters who battled the flames day in and day out. We salute you!
