GEORGE NEWS - The founder of Firstcare Wildlife Support, Christo Theron, is the George Good Citizen for the month of October.

Theron tells us more about the work that he and his team perform to safeguard George and surrounds against fires.

"I started Firstcare Wildfire Support about four years ago to assist with the prevention and combating of wildfires in the Garden Route. The team consists entirely of volunteers, all of them trained in wildfire suppression. I have a dedicated team that I am extremely proud of. The award is a very welcome acknowledgement of our efforts. 

"We do not always get recognition and it is very nice when we do. I dedicate this award to the whole team, because without them we can not accomplish anything. The R1 000 will also go straight into our operational fund to serve our community," he says.

Emergency numbers
Theron says people must always phone the local fire service on 044 801 6311 to report any signs of fire. "All firefighting operations are controlled by the municipal fire department and they will contact us for assistance as and when needed.

"With regards to what to donate to firefighters when fires break out, I can only speak of our own needs," says Theron. 

"What we have found works best for the guys are bottled water (500ml), and energy drinks like Energade. Please do not donate 5-litre bottles of water. Snacks like small chocolates and energy bars also work well. Eye drops and lip balms are always winners. Another big need is fuel for our vehicles and pumps. As a registered non-profit company we are totally reliant on support from the community."

Firstcare Wildlife Support can be contacted on 079 190 9428 with regards to fire safety, fire breaks, etc. They are available for fire safety talks and demonstrations at schools and crèches.

The search for the George Good Citizen of the month started in October last year and next week George Herald will publish the finalists, giving all our readers the chance to vote for their top citizen of the year online.

The Good Citizen Awards was initiated by We Are George.

A prize of R1 000 cash is awarded each month to the winner. To vote or nominate, go to the George Herald Facebook page and click through to the Facebook pages of We Are George or George Good Citizen Awards.