MBOMBELA – August is an extremely windy month that can cause runaway veld fires. This is according to Mpumalanga, Working on Fire (WoF) general manager, Mr Martin Bolton. WoF, the environmental affairs department programme to help fight unwanted veld and forest fires in South Africa, has urged communities to extinguish all fires before abandoning the area.
“People living on farms and fire-prone areas must take extra care when making open fires and braais. Never ignore unwanted veld fires, even if they seem far away as they spread quickly,” said Bolton.
The most dangerous situation is when a veld fire moves up a steep slope and you are above it with bush and grass between you and the fire. “If you feel threatened and you don’t think you can escape, find a safe zone,” he explained. A safe zone is an area that has already been burnt or is completely clear of anything that can fuel a fire.
According to Bolton, those who live in thatched-roof houses close to an open field must clean up areas around their property and also warn children that fires are dangerous.
Bolton pleaded with all motorists that when smoke surrounds any freeway, the road users must reduce speed, switch on hazard lights, and close the windows to prevent smoke inhalation.
Veld fires spread rapidly, especially in the current dry and windy conditions. Therefore all fires have to be reported. Delays might lead to serious damage and even the loss of lives.
