HERMANUS PUBLIC PROTECTION
NEWSLETTER
Keeping our community safe and clean, together
MAY 2026
In this edition:
- Storm Impact | HPP Remains Operational During Severe Overstrand Storms
- Tourism Advisory | Safety Reminder for Holiday Homes and Short-Term Rentals
- Gender-Based Violence | Addressing Gender-Based Violence Through Coordinated Community Safety Interventions
Storms Impact the Overstrand
On 10 May 2026, the Western Cape was hit by severe storm conditions, with the Overstrand area, including Hermanus, experiencing destructive winds and heavy rainfall. The storm resulted in widespread disruption across the region, including extensive power outages, fallen trees, debris on roads, and damage to infrastructure.
Electricity supply to large parts of Hermanus was interrupted from approximately 08:00 on 11 May, with power only being restored to sections of the Hermanus CBD by Wednesday, 13 May. According to updates issued by Overstrand Municipality, the outages were linked to failures affecting Eskom infrastructure servicing the Overberg region.
Despite the prolonged outages, HPP’s backup power systems and operational contingencies enabled our control room, majority of the camera network, and communications systems to remain online throughout the incident.
HPP patrollers responded quickly to assist where possible, including:
- Clearing branches and debris from roads and public spaces;
- Assisting residents with clearing driveways and repositioning gates;
- Logging storm-related service issues with Overstrand Municipality; and
- Monitoring vulnerable public areas during the outage period.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Overstrand Municipality’s Disaster Management teams, municipal staff, emergency services, and Eskom personnel, damaged water infrastructure was repaired, debris cleared, and essential services restored as quickly as possible under difficult conditions.
The response demonstrated the value of coordinated disaster management and the commitment of those working tirelessly behind the scenes to protect communities and restore normality. Their efforts deserve recognition and appreciation.
We recognise that climate-related events, unpredictable weather conditions, and ongoing pressure on the national electricity network are likely to remain an ongoing risk for our area. HPP continues to invest in preparedness measures to improve resilience and operational continuity during emergencies.
We would like to thank our operational team, as well as Fidelity-ADT, WCC Technologies, GoWifi and Iphupha Cleansing for their continued support and assistance during the storms. Their efforts helped ensure that essential services, communications, and public area responses continued throughout the severe weather conditions.
Holiday Rental Safety Reminder
Over the past month, HPP received reports of theft incidents at several holiday rental properties within the area. In many of these cases, opportunistic criminals were able to gain easy access to properties that had been left unsecured, often entering through unlocked doors or windows while guests were briefly away.
HPP encourages property owners, managing agents and hosts to remind guests to:
- Ensure doors and windows are locked whenever leaving the property;
- Arm alarm systems where installed;
- Avoid leaving handbags, wallets, laptops, mobile phones or other valuables visible or unsecured; and
- Store valuable items safely, particularly when the property is unoccupied.
We also ask that you remind visitors attending sporting and cycling events in the area that bicycles and sporting equipment should be securely stored and not left unattended or visible inside vehicles.
Simple preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of theft and help ensure that Hermanus remains a safe and welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.
Working Together to Keep Hermanus Safe
1 May to 31 May 2026
Reports Received
412
Arrests
1
Waste Collected (KGs)
1 510
Addressing Gender-Based Violence Through Community Partnerships
During May, HPP members assisted SAPS in two separate incidents involving violence against women.
On 16 May 2026, an HPP CCTV Operator observed an altercation between a male and female, with indications that the female had been assaulted. HPP officers and SAPS responded immediately. The suspect attempted to flee but was detained and arrested by SAPS on charges related to Gender-Based Violence.
On 18 May 2026, HPP received reports of a male assaulting a female with a stick in the Hermanus CBD. HPP patrollers intervened, and the victim was assisted in opening a case.
These incidents highlight the importance of rapid reporting, visible patrols and coordinated responses in protecting vulnerable members of the community.
HPP also continues to support collaborative violence prevention initiatives, including the work of the Overberg Violence Prevention Unit (VPU) in Zwelihle. Through patrols along Swartdam Road, participation in local safety structures and information sharing, HPP contributes to broader efforts aimed at reducing violence and improving community safety. The VPU applies an evidence-based public health approach to violence prevention, bringing together multiple stakeholders to address the underlying causes of violent crime.
That is all for this edition. With your support, we will continue to protect what makes Hermanus such a special place to live and visit.
Leon Rauch
HPP Chair
Stay Connected. Stay Safe with HPP.
Stay informed and connected by joining the HPP WhatsApp group. This is where we share our monthly newsletter, practical safety tips, and occasional important public safety updates. It’s a simple way to stay aware of what’s happening in the area and how you can play a part in keeping our community safe.
This is an information-only group. No emergency reporting or general chat.
For emergencies, contact HPP Control Room: 087 550 5295.