CPNW Fire Drill 11Mar16 – Feedback and Important Information

Date posted: March 15, 2016

Dear Chapman’s Peak Residents

We’re pleased to say that after holding our first fire drill last Friday, we are another step closer to establishing the Chapman’s Peak Volunteer Fire Unit. Thanks to all the volunteers who showed up, and for those who could not make it, we will have a re-run of the drill in April. The purpose of the drill was to become familiar with the equipment and also how to operate within an Incident Command Structure.

Naturally the safety of our volunteers and residents is our top priority, and so it’s important to note the ‘house rules’ by which we can do this.

In the event of an actual fire, we will deploy our volunteers and equipment – with the purpose of containing the fire and preventing it from spreading while the formal Fire Services are on their way.  Once they arrive we will either stand down or operate alongside them at their discretion. We encourage volunteers to wear their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and attend regular fire drills so that they are suitably equipped.

An important note for residents – should there be a fire, please do not rush to the fire scene as this hinders the access of the volunteers and formal services. The biggest hindrance to contain a fire is residents and spectators who mean well, but block access.  You can expect to have some volunteers directing traffic. Please note that we will not allow anyone who is not trained and who does not wear Personal Protective Equipment to rush into a fire scene.  This is also valid for any fire in any of our surrounding communities.

 And for our volunteers -- please note that there is a central point where you must sign in before you are deployed to a specific team and task.  Should we ever be called on to assist San Michelle, or any other area with a fire the same will apply – we report to the operations point and deploy as needed within their structure.

If this all sounds a bit formal, there is a real need to prevent people from running wild when panic sets in, and to prevent injury to all concerned.  Safety first.

We are encouraged through our collaboration with the rest of the Noordhoek community to set up these units and will combine our resources and efforts when needed. There are more Fire Drills planned for April and we will also slot into those hosted by Volunteers in San Michelle, De Goede Hoop and Danieldale on invitation.

Should you be inspired to become part of the Chapman’s Peak Volunteer Fire Unit – please let us know! You can email us at Firewise@cpnw.org.za

Finally, a word of thanks to our training and equipment partners, Enviro Wildfire Services (EWS), who continue to provide us with expert support