Be careful with fires during the winter months
During fire season, between June and October, it just takes one unattended fire or a lit cigarette thrown into the bush to start a serious fire.
MALALANE – Community members are urged to be extra careful when lighting fires over the next five months. Fire season in the Lowveld officially starts from June and lasts until October, when the first rain of the summer season has fallen. Disaster management authorities are usually on high alert during this time due to the dry nature of the environment and the higher risk of fires spreading.
The MEC for cooperative governance and traditional affairs in Mpumalanga, Speedy Mashilo recently urged communities to take precautionary measures during the winter months to avoid disasters.
Communities can call the toll-free disaster line on 0800-202-507 to report emergencies.
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Residents are cautioned to take care when starting any fires and to have sand, water or a fire extinguisher on hand in case it gets out of hand. Charnel Hattingh of Fidelity ADT urged businesses and residents to ensure they have fire extinguishers on the premises and even smoke alarms that can alert your security company or the fire department immediately.
Homeowners are urged to ensure that candles and matches are stored out of reach of children and that vulnerable areas such as lapas and braai areas are adequately fireproofed.
Other fire prevention tips include:
• not leaving unattended fire braziers with children
• not leaving fires in the bush unattended
• properly putting out and disposing of cigarette butts
• clearing rubble like wood piles, garden refuse and other flammable materials from your yard.
