The Sinoville Firefighting Association (SBBV) has recently provided free fire training to new members and volunteers.

The training gave participants basic knowledge and how to use equipment.

The association is composed of volunteers who provide a daily Fire Danger Index (FDI) to residents in the north of Pretoria.

According to association spokesperson Zenobia Loock-du Plessis, the training aimed to deepen the volunteers’ understanding of various types of grassfire and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to control fire effectively as a cohesive unit.

“The training underscored the dangers of wildfires, especially in mountainous areas such as Magalies Mountain, where fire poses a huge threat to both homes and wildlife.

We urge the public to always call for professional help and avoid attempting to extinguish wildfires alone,” said Loock Du Plessis.

She said residents should stay away from any fires when wearing flammable synthetic materials.

“When putting out a fire, never start at the top, start at the bottom.

Think of a tree that burns; you need to start at the base of the tree and work up the trunk.

“Use a spray nozzle,” instructed Loock Du Plessis.

“Leather shoes, cotton, and wool are the only materials that will resist fire for a longer period.”.

The SBBV supports the Tshwane firefighters, serves to protect the community and relies on public donations to equip their team with necessary safety gear and training.

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Lizette du Plooy, a firefighter who attended the training, emphasised the importance of team dynamics and terrain awareness in fire management.

“The behaviour within a team and on the terrain of the fire can make a huge difference in fighting a fire,” said Du Plooy.

Du Plooy also highlighted the role of water in fire suppression, noting that while water is effective in cooling and breaking the heat of a fire, it should not be considered the final solution.

“Fire consumes organic material beneath the surface of the ground, such as litter and garden rubbish, which can smoulder for long periods after the fire appears to be extinguished,” she explained.

She also pointed out that many crown fires depend on surface fires, stressing the importance of not leaving flammable garbage under the ground.

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