Ferndale Residents Association takes action against winter fire threat
Ferndale Residents' Association has taken action to protect their trees from the fires that they usually experience in winter.
With winter nearing, the Ferndale Residents’ Association (FRA) is ramping up fire prevention by cutting grass and removing invasive plants along the spruit between Fern and Vine avenues.
This comes as dry winter conditions increase the likelihood of fires spreading through overgrown vegetation.
FRA chairperson Erica de Jager explained that they focused on areas where long grass has accumulated, particularly around trees that are vulnerable to fire damage.
Read more: Family rebuilds after fire destroys Sering Street home
“We have been cutting long grass, especially around the trees, because when the grass dries out, some people set it on fire, and the flames spread to the trees.
“So, we decided to cut around to protect them. We have new trees that we planted, and we want to make sure they grow.”
She said that dry grass often becomes a fire hazard during winter, and they have seen on cameras individuals deliberately setting it alight. In previous years, several trees in the area were damaged or destroyed by fires that originated in unmanaged grasslands.
The removal of invasive species is also expected to improve the health of the local ecosystem and reduce the amount of combustible material in the spruits.
Also read: Tree stump remains blocking a lane on Mackay Avenue
She also welcomed Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo’s efforts as they came to cut grass, noting that the work not only enhances the appearance of the area; it contributes to public safety.
The association has urged community members to report illegal dumping, suspicious activities, and any fires immediately to prevent serious damage.
“We have trees that are 50 to 60 years old. We have a few that have burnt and fallen over in recent years. All the lovely trees were planted by the municipality.
We tried to get all the weeds out, and we will come and rake the grass that was left and put it all in bags and take it to Pikitup depot.”
The FRA plans to continue monitoring high-risk areas throughout the winter.
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