As the 2026 fire season approaches, landowners, businesses and communities are urged to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of veld fires and ensure readiness during the annual burning prohibition period from June 1 to October 31.

Stakeholders are encouraged to check and maintain fire-fighting equipment, ensure staff are trained and aware of fire hazards, and attend relevant training sessions offered by Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association (LEFPA).

Regular participation in LEFPA meetings also helps communities stay informed and aligned during the high-risk fire season.

Landowners are reminded to prepare and maintain firebreaks and obtain the necessary burning permits through LEFPA before conducting any controlled burns.

The public is also advised to enjoy outdoor activities responsibly by following basic fire safety practices, including never leaving fires unattended, keeping water or sand nearby, avoiding fires in windy conditions, using designated braai areas, fully extinguishing fires before leaving, and safely disposing of cigarette butts.

The National Veld and Forest Fire Act 101 of 1998 places several responsibilities on landowners.

These include preparing and maintaining firebreaks, notifying neighbours and fire protection associations of planned burns and ensuring firebreaks are effective and free of flammable material.

The Act further states that anyone who lights a fire in the open air during a published high fire danger warning may be guilty of a first category offence, which carries a fine and/or imprisonment of up to two years.

Landowners or occupiers who fail to extinguish or contain fires on their property, leave fires unattended or fail to maintain firebreaks may also face fines or imprisonment.

Fire safety products such as Firexo’s multi-purpose extinguishers are available in various sizes for commercial, domestic and leisure use, including specialised products for lithium-ion and pan fires.