Be fire season-savvy and avoid disaster
It is fire season and here are a few things to be mindful of
The threat of runaway veld fires is ever present during the dry winter months. With minimal rain, dry landscapes and winds picking up speeds towards the latter winter months, fires can be easily started and spread.
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Termed as ‘fire season’ between May 30 and November 1, residents are urged to be extra cautious when handling fires.
During fire season, residents are warned against lighting open fires and it is prohibited, especially when a high fire danger index (FDI) report is received.
Local firefighters have to often extinguish runaway grass fires after some residents opt to burn the grass around their property. Another concern is the unauthorised burning of fire breaks, the real danger here lies when this is done during dry and windy conditions.
Firebreaks may be burned from May 1 to July 31 after a favourable FDI report, which may be obtained the emergency centre on 036 352 4444.
Residents are also cautioned to ensure that appliances like heaters and stoves are quality approved and compliant. Care should be taken when candles and power tools like welding machines are utilised.
Remember that during the dry fire season, carelessly tossing a cigarette butt into grass or leaving a braai fire unattended could spell disaster, so be fire season-savvy. Report fires to the emergency centre on 036 352 6464/4444.
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