Pinelands sewer depot team’s exceptional rescue operation and firefighting skills during a residential fire in Heideveld on November 20, 2023, transformed their work vehicle into an unconventional firefighting tool. The team’s bravery and selflessness didn’t end with the rescue operation; they donated essential items from their own resources to help the family rebuild their lives after the event.
A Remarkable Display of Bravery
On a regular day, you’d find the City’s Water and Sanitation Pinelands sewer depot team attending to the city’s sanitation infrastructure, a crucial but routine task. November 20, 2023, however, was not a regular day. In a twist of fate, this group found themselves in a situation far removed from their usual duties – responding to a residential fire in Heideveld and becoming unexpected heroes in the process.
Having just completed a task at Athlone, the team was en route to their next assignment when they noticed a house on fire on Klipfontein Road. It was a sight that demanded immediate attention and they knew they had a responsibility to act. The burning house wasn’t just another incident to report, but an urgent crisis they had the opportunity to mitigate.
The efficient eight-member team, comprising Lee-Roy Sheldon, Gideon Tyman, Naziem De Jager, Verona Joseph, Ismail Boer, Quinton Sakala, Faeeza Malherbe, and Claudia Josias, promptly divided themselves for an effective rescue operation.
A Rescue Operation Beyond the Call of Duty
While some team members skilfully led the parents and three children out of the burning house, two brave souls climbed onto the garage roof. They broke a window and rescued a two-month-old baby trapped inside an upstairs room. Their prompt, fearless response ensured the safe evacuation of the endangered family.
But the team’s bravery didn’t stop at the rescue. They quickly shifted gears to firefighting, showcasing innovative thinking by using the non-potable water in their jet combination truck, typically used for addressing sewer blockages. In this critical moment, their usual work vehicle transformed into an unconventional firefighting tool.
By the time the City’s Fire and Rescue services reached the scene, the fire was already under control, thanks to the quick-witted and heroic efforts of the sewer depot team. To express his gratitude for their excellent service, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, met the team personally.
“The team’s bravery is a testament to the spirit of collaboration that drives our city. Their actions embody the values of our city and illustrate how Cape Town is truly a City of Hope,” Councillor Badroodien remarked.
From Heroes to Samaritans
The story of these heroes did not conclude with the extinguished fire or the family’s safe rescue. Showing empathy towards the family’s predicament, the Pinelands team went a step further. They donated essential items from their own resources, helping the family start rebuilding their lives after the devastating event.
This incident underlines the immense potential of vigilance, fast thinking, and compassion to make a difference, even in a seemingly hopeless situation. The actions of the Pinelands’ team are a bright beacon, reminding us of our collective responsibility to extend a helping hand in times of despair.
This story of the Pinelands sewer depot team isn’t just a tale of a successful rescue. It’s an inspiring saga of selflessness, compassion, and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a reminder that heroes can emerge from the most unlikely places and circumstances, forever changing lives with their acts of courage and kindness.
