Community mobilises as fire damages Summerstrand substation

GQEBERHA – Residents in Summerstrand were affected by another out-of-control fire near Caulfield Crescent, where flames damaged an electricity substation and disrupted electricity supply in the area.

According to information received, the fire spread rapidly, prompting residents to assist in fire-fighting efforts using garden hoses and basic equipment while emergency services responded. The damage to the substation resulted in a power outage, with residents advised to make alternative arrangements for the evening.

It was confirmed that while the fire at the substation has been extinguished, surrounding fire activity continued in the area. Engineers from the electricity department will assess the extent of the damage once it is deemed safe to enter the site.

The fire also affected access to water, as boreholes could not be used during the incident, increasing pressure on residents and responders as they attempted to contain the blaze.

A coordinated response was mounted involving firefighters, neighbourhood watch members, traffic officials, metro police, and ward committee representatives. Traffic officials assisted with road closures and traffic flow, while neighbourhood watch members helped coordinate community efforts and monitor hot spots.

Special attention was given to vulnerable areas, including Protea Children’s Home, which was monitored during the incident. Community members also established a collection point for essential items to support firefighters on the ground.

Tappen commended the collective response, noting that the incident highlighted the strength of the community during challenging circumstances. He also thanked emergency services, municipal departments, and residents who assisted in protecting the area.

Residents were urged to remain alert overnight and to prioritise safety, particularly in areas where flare-ups may still occur. However, according to a Summerstrand resident Funeka Soga, “Electricity was restored in my apartment yesterday at around 18:00 or 19:00.”