A fire has left several people destitute in Du Noon. The aid organization, Gift of the Givers says the blaze broke out in the informal settlement last night.

A fire has left several people destitute

Spokesperson Ali Sablay says City Firefighting teams were called out to the Malibongwe Informal Settlement around 10 o’clock last night.

READ MORE: Prevent a fire in your home

Community leaders asked them to provide humanitarian assistance following the devastating blaze.

How many structures affected

It’s not clear yet how many people were affected.

The number of shacks razed has also not been determined yet.

Providing Humanitarian Aid

He says their teams will assist the community this morning and over the next few days. This will include hot meals. Anyone can donate to the organization. More information on their website.

City of Cape Town – Basic fire prevention and safety

Most house fires are caused by a lack of thought or concentration. Smoking cigarettes or using matches, lighters, candles, heating appliances and equipment such as electric blankets can all cause fires if not carefully monitored. Many fires are easily preventable if you follow a few basic safety guidelines. (From the City’s website.)

• • Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
  • Cut candles in half to prevent them from falling over – and use a candle holder
  • Do not smoke in bed
  • If you can afford it, keep a fire extinguisher in your home; maintain it annually and learn how to use it
  • Keep a bucket of sand in the kitchen if you don’t have an extinguisher; throwing sand over a small fire, especially oil, can help contain it before it gets out of control
  • Keep a garden hose rolled up and ready in case of fire
  • Where possible, have more than one exit point from your house
  • Make an escape plan that the whole family knows about and can follow – see our Fire Safety Home Checklist
  • Do not park in the way of a fire hydrant.

MORE ABOUT: City of Cape Town – Basic Household Fire Safety