A remarkable team effort between Makana fire fighters, Rhodes Grounds and Gardens employees and SPCA staff prevented disaster on Monday 15 September after a fire broke out in the Grahamstown industrial area.
A remarkable team effort between Makana fire fighters, Rhodes Grounds and Gardens employees and SPCA staff prevented disaster on Monday 15 September after a fire broke out in the Grahamstown industrial area.
The Police Dog Unit and SPCA premises were under threat from the blaze that started on the municipal commonage.
Speaking to Grocott's Mail today, SPCA vice-chairperson Lois Marechal said, "I rushed up there when my staff called me and we all assisted."
Marechal said Rhodes property starts immediately behind the SPCA.
"So the Rhodes guys were here with their fire truck: Phillip Crouse, Mzamo and a guy called Joe as well were all fantastic," Marechal said.
Chief of the Makana fire department William Welkom said rumours that the fire was caused by a faulty powerline were unconfirmed.
"We are not sure about the cause of the fire, but it was reported to us by one of the electricians working on a powerline nearby."
According to Welkom, the station received a call around 2pm and the fire team responded immediately.
"We contained the fire and made sure that it doesn't cross the road to the side of the SPCA and the Police Dog Unit," Welkom said.
"By 5.30pm we were satisfied [that it was under control]." Welkom said one fire engine remained behind to monitor the fire.
