Fire warning issued

The South African Weather Services (SAWS) has warned residents of dangerous veld fires due to prolonged periods of little and no rain coupled with warm, dry, strong winds.

Veld or bush fires can easily be sparked and will spread rapidly in strong winds.

Precautions – dangerous veld/bush fire conditions:

r Don’t make fires in the open and/or leave fires unattended.

r Don’t throw lit cigarette butts out of vehicles or in the open veld. It is by far too common a practice.

r Don’t throw bottles in the veld as they can magnify the sun’s rays and start fires.

r Prepare and maintain fire breaks in a controlled manner.

r In the case of a large fire, report it immediately and move away from the area to let the professionals deal with it.

r In case of veld fires along the roads, motorists should approach road sections obscured by smoke with great caution.

r Never throw water onto a fire started by an electrical fault or fires started by oil or paraffin lamps. In this case sand or a blanket should be used to smother the fire.

r Listen to the radio or TV for warnings and obey the instructions from disaster management officers.

Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services Department (DEMS) also cautioned the residents around the city to be on high alert for such emergencies.

Mr William Ntladi, district manager media liaison: Emergency Services Disaster and Emergency Management Services said DEMS is always prepared to timeously respond to all incidents within the municipality.

“Communities are also expected to assist in mitigating the occurrences of emergencies,” said Mr Ntladi.

In case of emergencies call 10177 or 011 458 0911/ cell phone 112. Ensure that you have the emergency call centre telephone numbers saved and visible at all times. Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency. Provide the operator with all the details required. Do not end the conversation until all questions are answered and clarified.