Disobeying the fire season rules could be disastrous
If you spot a fire, immediately contact the municipal control center on 036 352 6464/4444
Carelessly tossing away a cigarette or starting a fire in open spaces is prohibited. During May 1 and November 30, which is known as fire season, strict control is exercised when it comes to fires and firebreaks.
The dry landscape provides the ideal backdrop for runaway veldt fire, which can be deadly and cause severe damage. Recently a farmer in the Moor Park area lost 40 hectares of grazing land in what is suspected to be an arson attack.
READ THE STORY HERE: Farmers suspect arsonists at work
If you spot a fire, immediately contact the municipal control center on 036 352 6464/4444.
Here are the do’s and don’ts during the dry fire season
The lighting of fires and the disposal of refuse or combustible material by burning are prohibited.
A person may light a fire or use a flame-emitting device for the purpose of purpose of preparing food or other domestic purpose in a manner that will not cause a hazard.
Provisions have been made for block burning veldt, back burning to control wild fires, burning maize harvest residue and plantation sash and fires in demarcated picnic and camping areas.
Firebreaks may be burned from May 1 to July 31 after a favourable Fire Danger Index (FDI) report, which may be obtained by calling 036 352 6464/4444.
Permission to burn any combustible material in the open must be requested in writing from the Fire Chief Mr BA Phoswa.
Some of the common complaints that the fire department attends to during fire season include burning of firebreaks in hot and windy conditions, residents burning the grass around their premises and incorrect use of stoves, welding machines, stoves and candles.
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