Port Shepstone crematorium fire remains a mystery
It remains unclear what caused the fire that erupted at the Port Shepstone crematorium, destroying sections of the building as well as equipment.
It is suspected the fire started in the facility’s furnace, South Coast Herald reported.
An employee of Independent Crematoriums South Africa (ICSA), based at the Port Shepstone branch, said the fire started at about 11pm on Saturday.
“Hibiscus Coast Municipality Fire Department responded when the incident was reported. However, when I returned to work the next day, it had re-ignited,” said the employee.
ICSA operations manager Cedric Barthus said work was being done to have the crematorium operational again.
“No cremations will be done in Port Shepstone until the facility has been repaired,” said Barthus.
“However, funeral services may still be conducted at the Port Shepstone Chapel, where after the body will be cremated at Stellawood crematorium in Durban.”
He added ICSA would use their own transport to Durban and would bring the ashes back for families.
“I cannot confirm when business will be back to normal as we are still dealing with quotations from various businesses,” he said.
– Caxton News Service
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