Centurion’s responders pull together after weekend storm
While Cert SA confirmed there were no injuries, ward councillor Ina Strijdom says the efforts are an example of how a community can stand together.
A storm sweeping through Centurion on Saturday, January 27, left a trail of destruction that was quickly addressed through the teamwork of various responders.
Non-profit organisation Cert-SA said there were thankfully no injuries reported at any of the incidents following the storm.
It said efforts by the metro’s Urban Forestry department, TMPD, Tshwane Emergency Services, the SAPS, Wierdabrug CPF sector 1, 2, and 3, and several private security companies worked together to clear roads in the area.
“It is always great to work as a team among multiple agencies and services,” it said.
Ward 66 councillor Ina Strijdom thanked those who assisted.
“[They] did not hesitate for a second when I asked for assistance,” she said.
“You are a great example of how a community can stand together!”
A large tree in Edward Avenue that had fallen across the road and damaged a mini-substation on Lambert Road in Valhalla was cleared by CPF members.
“Saturday night was crazy everywhere. But it was made easy with all the sectors working together,” said Amoré Jooste, a Wierdabrug CPF sector 3 spokesperson.
“In each sector, there were trees down, and we all just got together and helped where we could.”
She said by the end of the night, about 30 people from various CPF sectors had come together to help.
“It wasn’t just everybody that was on patrol on the night, those that were not on patrol decided to get on the road because they saw we needed more hands.”
Jooste said on Friday, CPF members also helped clear trees on Rooihuiskraal Road and two large trees that had fallen on Capensis Avenue.
“People need to be alert when driving during thunderstorms in Centurion, and especially at night,” Jooste advised.
“Even though you think you know the road, Centurion has many old trees that can easily fall during storms, especially when streetlights are out.”
Jooste urged concerned residents to consider joining their local CPF.
“Don’t wait until you are affected by crime, it’s too late then. We try to give our time to make a difference,” she said.
“Many people give a lot of their time because they enjoy doing it, but it doesn’t mean that you have to do the same amount of hours, every little bit helps.”
Contact numbers:
– Sector 1 Bronberrick, Clubview, Eldo Falls, Hennops Park, Monrick and Valhalla – 079 733 2138 or 079 733 2149
– Sector 2 in Gateway, Rooihuiskraal, and The Reeds – 076 883 2437
– Sector 3 in Amberfield, Celtisdal, Eldoraigne, Heuweloord, Raslouw, Rooihuiskraal North, Wierda Glen and Wierda Park – 072 822 9312.
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