Various veld fires caused extensive damage in the Carletonville and Fochville areas over the past month.

According to Aletta du Preez of the West Rand District Municipality, a total of 224 veld fires occurred across the West Rand in July. The damage and costs resulting from these fires amounted to more than R21m.

The local area was also severely affected, with 2 500 hectares of veld and pasture destroyed in the Carletonville area and a further 12 000 hectares in the Fochville area.

To prepare for the fire season, members of the Fochville Fire Prevention Society conducted training sessions for prospective firefighters. The training covered the correct equipment required and how to use it, firefighting techniques, the dangers associated with veld fires, and various legal aspects relating to firefighting.

Due to the current weather conditions, which pose an extreme fire risk, the West Rand District Fire and Rescue Services imposed a total fire ban from August 1. This means that all open fires are prohibited, no rubbish may be burned outdoors, and fires may only be made in designated areas.

During this period, authorities will not issue any burning permits, and farmers and other landowners are also prohibited from burning firebreaks. Fire and rescue authorities have urged residents to take extra precautions when welding or grinding in areas where veld fires could start.

They also encourage residents to report fires immediately and to ensure their own firefighting equipment is ready should their assistance be required.

According to the authorities, the ban is necessary because the current windy conditions allow fires to spread rapidly, meaning that even a small fire can develop into a raging wildfire within seconds. Wind can increase the speed at which a fire spreads by as much as 300%.

Strong winds can also carry embers and sparks far beyond the fire’s point of origin, igniting new fires in other areas. In addition, wind accelerates evaporation, drying out vegetation such as grass, leaves and branches, making it highly flammable.

High winds also make fires more unpredictable and difficult to control, placing lives, homes, livestock and property at extreme risk. The fire ban during the windy season is a proactive measure aimed at preventing disasters, protecting the environment and saving lives.

People who wish to report fires can call 107 from a landline, 011 951 3000 from a landline or cellphone, or phone or WhatsApp 072 177 5831. WhatsApp messages can also be sent to 068 571 8146.