Stay safe from fires this winter

With the onset of the dry winter season, the Lekwa Fire Protection Association (FPA) and the Lekwa Fire Brigade have implemented a municipality-wide fire prohibition.

This measure aims to prevent runaway fires and protect residents during the dry, windy months. The fire ban took effect on June 1 and will remain in place until October 31.

Under this prohibition, no one may create or fuel fires in open fields or other areas where fires can easily spread.

Exceptions include:
• Fires made in demarcated fire pits or braai areas
• Cooking fires within one’s own residence
• Fires used for traditional initiation school purposes
• Individuals found guilty of starting fires in unauthorised areas—or without a valid burning permit—may face fines of up to R5 000.
• Burning permits can be obtained by contacting Frans Awie Vermaak, Lekwa FPA chairperson and manager, or Ernst le Roux, Morgenzon Station Officer of the Lekwa Fire Department.

The Standerton Advertiser also spoke to the Lekwa Local Municipality, which shared essential fire safety tips for the winter season.

Chief Melanie Shimane of the Lekwa Fire Department provides the following safety tips:
• Never leave stoves, heaters, or open flames unattended
• Do not use heaters to dry clothing
• Discard cigarette butts safely and never near dry grass
• Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach
• Turn off all appliances when leaving your home
• Never burn waste or grass near your residence

In the event of a fire:
• Crawl low to the ground to avoid smoke inhalation
• If your clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll
• When reporting a fire, clearly state your full name, contact number, type of emergency, address, and whether there are any injuries or entrapments

Emergency contacts:

• Standerton Fire Department: 017 712 5551
• Morgenzon Fire Department: 017 793 3496