Fire risk is high this season
Dry grass, strong winds and a single careless act can ignite a dangerous veld fire. Stay vigilant, and practise fire safety.
As the windy and dry season sets in, the City of Ekurhuleni urges residents to remain vigilant and help prevent veld and grass fires.
A single careless act can have devastating consequences for lives, property, livestock and the environment.
Common causes of veld fires include:
• Discarding lit cigarette butts onto dry grass or vegetation
• Lighting open fires near dry veld, especially on windy days
• Children playing with matches or lighters and deliberately burning vegetation
• Lightning strikes, particularly during dry thunderstorms.
Help prevent veld fires by:
• Creating firebreaks around your property
• Cutting grass and clearing dry vegetation regularly
• Never leaving open fires unattended
• Disposing of cigarette butts safely
• Keeping matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
Veld fires produce dense smoke that can reduce visibility on roads, increasing the risk of serious accidents.
Smoke also poses a health risk, especially to people suffering with asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Report life-threatening emergencies by calling 011 458 0911 or 10177, or by dialling 112.
