FIRE SEASON IS HERE: STAY SAFE, PREVENT AND REPORT FIRES

The Langeberg Municipality urges residents and visitors to the area to be vigilant and cautious when dealing with fires.

Veld fires are more prevalent during the hot, dry summer season and are difficult to control. Also referred to as wildfires, they are bush fires within, or outside of, urban areas that have the potential to spread out of control. Veld fires are mostly started by people, and only a small number is started by natural occurrences such as lightning.

Wildfire conditions are fuelled by dry, hot, often persistent strong winds, parched veld, often inadequately managed private land, and alien vegetation providing high fuel loads. These conditions can turn the smallest spark into a raging fire, which could devastate the unique fauna and flora of the region.

If not managed adequately, buildings, homes, crops and so much more can be laid to ruin. Across the globe, wildfires have moved from wildlands into the urban periphery (wildland urban interface). In their wake have left death, destruction, and disruption. It is therefore important to report any unauthorised fires irrespective where they are taking place as they have a potential into turning normal day into a disaster.

The five main causes of veld fires are:

• Intentional: Arson is a malicious and criminal act of deliberately starting fires.
• Smoking: Smouldering cigarette butts can also cause fires, either discarded by workers working in the fields/bush, pedestrians or passing motorists.
• Cooking fires: Open fires for cooking and discarded hot ash can cause fires, particularly in nature conservation areas, on farms, or near open fields.
• Burning of debris: Permitted and unpermitted burning of debris, if badly managed, or if weather conditions suddenly change, can cause runaway fires.
• Lightning: Lightning can cause wildfires and/or structural fires.

Although wildfires can have devastating effects on people’s lives, property, and animals, They are also important for local ecosystems. The heat generated by fires, helps certain fynbos plant seeds to germinate.

To prevent fires, please ensure the following:

• Make sure braai fires and warm coals are extinguished when leaving the area, either with sand or water;
• Make sure there are no illegal electrical connections in your immediate area;
• Do not play with matches;
• Do not burn anything if you have not been issued with a permit to do so;
• Do not throw cigarette butts through your car window;
• Do not leave fires unattended, and
• Keep your property clean and safe – keep your grass cut and perform regular maintenance checks.

To combat fires in our area, your assistance is of vital importance. In the event of a fire outbreak, report it immediately, even if it seems small. In addition, having a better understanding of structural and wildfires will help to be better prepared.

Early fire warnings remain critical to control fires quickly. When a fire breaks out, getting control over it as quickly as possible, is vital. If a fire is contained within the first hour, the possibility of a major incident is minimised.

To report fires, please use our dedicated Fire Line 023 615 8911.

For any other emergencies or service issues contact our 24/7 Call Centre 0860 88 1111