Fire emergency evacuation drill for seniors

GEORGE NEWS - Residents and staff of Lyttelton Frail Care Centre had an unusual experience when they took part in an emergency evacuation drill on 23 March.

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire Services organised the drill after receiving a request from the Lyttelton management and assisted Lyttleton people during the practice.

Firefighting officials also carried out a thorough inspection of the premises beforehand and the team was warmly welcomed by occupants and staff.

Lyttelton centre is a 24/7 establishment that accommodates 25 vulnerable occupants and 30 personnel (on-and-off basis).

"Awareness, information and education are our ultimate goal to ensure owners and occupants act safely and timeously upon the notification of fire. The team, and especially the learner firefighters who were present, enjoyed and learned from the experience as well," said acting station officerfor fire and safety and training, Heinrich Leslie.

Lyttelton centre manager Stefan du Toit said they now feel more confident.

"We will now be able to rectify and improve on what was discussed during the briefing. We are grateful that we could experience a fire drill and that the fire services team made the effort to visit our facility. They were very friendly and we appreciate the time they spent to equip us with the necessary skills."

Lyttelton centre is a 24/7 establishment that accommodates 25 vulnerable occupants and 30 personnel (on-and-off basis).