Emergency Evacuation-Horses & Alpacas - Helderberg, Cape Town SA

Necessary info and requests for assistance will be relayed here. We also advise when properties are conducting "controlled burns" as sharing this info keeps the public informed that there is no need to be concerned. Due to the huge fires we’ve experienced in the Western Cape during recent fire seasons, various fire-fighting agencies have implemented far more intense measures for additional support

in fighting fires in the Western Cape. We are no longer dealing with the “normal” type of vegetation/bush fires but a much fiercer, unpredictable behaviour of fire. It’s important to understand that it is up to YOU as a horse/yard owner, to prepare and plan for an emergency within your yard. Once outside your yard, for Sir Lowry's Pass (SLP), there will be procedures in place to assist with some form of guidance during the chaos. It’s important to note these. Fire is no one’s friend! None of us are exempt from this type of disaster happening but if we work together and prepare, we can be a little better prepared than we were. Organised chaos is a key factor in an emergency situation and each experience allows us to evaluate and improve "for next time". So rather be prepared, even over prepared…and not use it, then not be prepared at all. DO NOT TOSS YOUR CIGARETTE BUTT ON THE GROUND - DISPOSE OF IT PROPERLY! ESPECIALLY DURING AN ACTIVE FIRE (yes, hard to believe but in a recent fire evacuation, people were smoking and tossing their butts on the ground!)

* Stay clear of emergency vehicles at all times > move off the road/out the way!
* Keep roads clear for emergency and evacuating vehicles
* Park your vehicle completely off the road and consider leaving the key in the
ignition in case the vehicle needs to be moved and you are not nearby
* In thick smoky conditions, remember to drive with your headlights on - this is for
your benefit and to ensure you are visible to all other road users
* Park the vehicle facing the exit route, ready to drive out
* If you are not able to assist in any way, LEAVE THE AREA.