Five volunteers from the Civil Protection of Haute-Garonne spent Christmas in Mayotte. Prepared for the difficult and specific conditions that have prevailed in the archipelago since the passage of Cyclone Chido, they help with the clearance and provide psychological support to the Mahorais.
Since December 21, five volunteers from the Civil Protection of Haute-Garonne have been engaged on the ground in Mayotte, supporting the populations hit by Cyclone Chido which struck on December 14.
These volunteers are part of the Support for Disaster Populations (SPS) center of Haute-Garonne, a group specializing in rapid intervention during major disasters. Among them, Patrice, departmental director of the SPS center, is accompanied by Adrien, an executive within the same center. Hélène, Sébastien and Karime, all three experienced first aiders, complete the team.
In 2023, this center had already been called upon for the earthquake in Morocco as well as for the derailment of a train in Montgiscard in November 2024. Before their departure, these volunteers underwent intensive preparation in order to respond effectively to the needs of the population on place. Needs that became clearer in the days following the disaster:
« Les missions confiées à nos bénévoles sont multiples : déblaiement des zones impactées, comprenant des opérations de tronçonnage, de nettoyage et l'utilisation de motopompes, la recherche de victimes mais aussi des soins médicaux d’urgence, des distributions de produits de première nécessité et du soutien aux populations par notre présence et nos actions sur place », détaille la Protection Civile de la Haute-Garonne dans un communiqué transmis à la presse.
But these are not the only tasks entrusted to volunteers.
An essential presence
Cutting or even cleaning operations are carried out. They are also responsible for searching for victims and distributing basic necessities, while providing emergency medical care. The life base and command post installed in Longoni make it possible to coordinate the 50 volunteers deployed on the island.
According to Civil Protection, as of December 24, 2,500 people are waiting for care in Mayotte. For this reason, the 1901 law association will remain mobilized until the end of January. A campaign calling for donations specific to Mayotte is underway.
