By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
SANParks (South African National Parks) has praised the emergency response teams, Rangers and Phalaborwa Fire Brigade for responding speedily to assist when units at two rest camps in the Kruger National Park(KNP) caught fire on the evening of 14 October.
According to the KNP spokesperson, Ike Phaahla, the first fire broke out at Satara Camp where embers from a braai fire landed on the thatch roof of a chalet and setting it alight.
“ The fire was quickly contained before spreading to other structures. A similar incident occurred at Olifants Rest Camp, requiring that three chalets be evacuated. This fire was also contained although it proved impossible to remove belongings of guests. Affected guests were relocated to nearer rest camps,” said Phaahla.
He urged visitors to extinguish braai fires immediately after cooking food as the park is experiencing hot, windy and dry weather conditions.
“ This will greatly minimise the possible risk of fire with its consequent damage to structures and the environment,” Phaahla said.
