As the dry season grips the West Rand, a stark warning rings out across the valleys and farmlands: Failing to prepare for winter veldfires could cost lives, livelihoods, and even your freedom.

Already, veldfires are flaring across Merafong, turning parched fields into infernos that threaten homes, livestock, and the environment. According to fire officials, these fires are not just seasonal annoyances — they are legal liabilities with potentially tragic consequences.

The law is clear: Landowners must act

Under the National Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998) — recently amended in April 2024 — all landowners, including those managing state-owned land, are legally responsible for preventing and managing fires on their properties. Ignoring these responsibilities could result in fines, jail time, or worse: the loss of lives and land.

“Veldfires don’t respect fences or ownership,“ said Aletta Du Preez, Fire Protection Officer for the West Rand District.
“We’ve seen damage worth millions, with homes lost, livestock killed, and people injured, simply because some landowners failed to prepare.”

Essential fire safety measures every landowner must take

To remain compliant with the law — and to safeguard their communities — landowners in Merafong must take the following urgent actions:

• Establish and maintain firebreaks (via burning, ploughing, cutting, or herbicides) that are wide and clear enough to halt advancing flames.

• Obtain permits before any burning activities.

• Inform neighboring landowners and your local Fire Protection Association (FPA) before burning.

• Reduce fuel loads: Cut back long grass and clear dead vegetation around structures.

• Equip and train: Keep firefighting tools on-site and ensure workers are ready to respond.

• Monitor the Fire Danger Index (FDI) and never burn on high fire danger days.

Connect with your local FPA today

Merafong has two registered Fire Protection Associations that assist with permits, training, and emergency coordination:

• Fochville Fire Protection Association – Chaired by Gawie Maritz | 📞 082 348 3768

• Gatsrant Fire Protection Association (Carletonville area) – Chaired by Tom Visser | 📞 082 808 2035

Membership is not only a smart move — it’s now mandatory, even for government-owned properties.

No burning without permission — Not even your garden waste

Residents are also reminded that under municipal by-laws, burning garden refuse or rubbish without permission is illegal. Violations can lead to penalties and contribute to runaway fires.

“Last year’s fires were worsened by careless open flames and non-compliance,” Du Preez warned.
“This season, the vegetation is thick. If you’re not ready, the consequences could be catastrophic.”

Be Proactive. Be Prepared. Be Protected.

This winter, let’s not allow carelessness to fuel a disaster. By acting now, landowners in Merafong can protect their families, farms, and futures — and play a critical role in keeping our region safe.

For more information, training opportunities, or fire permits, contact your local FPA or the West Rand Fire Protection Office today.