Post date: Dec 25, 2013 11:52:2 AM
S Africa Fire
China Central Television (CCTV) - More than 1,400 people have been left homeless after a devastating fire ripped through an informal settlement in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Valhalla Park settlement was reduced to ashes and ruble on Monday morning (Dec. 23), after the runaway blaze destroyed around 350 corrugated iron houses in the area.According to Theo Layne, spokesman for the city's fire and rescue services, three residents were injured, including a three-year-old boy, who had burns on his feet, but there were no fatalities.
In total, 23 residents and firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation, according toJean-Pierre Smith, mayoral committee member for safety and security, City of Cape Town.
Jean-Pierre Smith commended fire fighters for their bravery in risking their lives to save residents in distress and to protect property.
Some residents, however, blamed the local authorities for their inability to deal with the fire.
"We couldn't save one thing. And you know we were defenseless," said a resident. "The people here from the fire brigade turned around because they didn't have enough water."
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