Cape Town is commending the many volunteers and civilian heroes who have given over 18,000 hours of service during disasters, playing an imperative role in helping communities during the most dire times:
Cape Town, South Africa (02 September 2024) — Severe weather has surged in the past two years for Cape Town, with residents facing everything from damaging winds to flooding and wildfires. But, thanks to volunteers and the selfless time they have given (over 18,000 hours at that), these disasters have always had a team of helping heroes.
Because of the surge, the Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) has had to stretch itself farther and wider over time. However, the crops of volunteers in their network have come to the rescue time and time again as the unsung heroes of disaster management, helping them save and protect lives.
The DRMC has 419 volunteers who work in teams across the metropolis. When trouble strikes, they are activated through the Disaster Operations Centre via their unit coordinators, who will then assist officials who respond to affected communities.
They are trained regularly in first aid, firefighting, occupational health and safety interventions and much more so that the next time they’re called to a cause, they are even more prepared.
To put into perspective just how much time they have given to their communities, the City of Cape Town has shared that the volunteers spent 18,472 hours assisting the DRMC officials. That means more than 769 days of voluntary service!
“The demands on our resources have only grown in recent years, as we witness the changing weather patterns and its impact on our city. We couldn’t keep up, if not for our volunteers. And they’re not only there during the times of disaster – they are also very visible in our daily education and awareness initiatives, going door-to-door in communities to advocate for disaster mitigation.
“Some of them have been in the ranks for many years, and we truly appreciate their commitment and dedication to the cause, whether during floods or frantic wildfires. I want to express the City’s gratitude for their years of service, acts of bravery and contributions to the community,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
Those looking to become a volunteer and join this crop of heroes can learn more here!