Be mindful of fire hazards
Kwatsaduza - Veld fires are a common occurrence in Kwatsaduza during the cold winter months.
Some residents start these fires to either keep warm or to burn litter.
Emergency Services spokesman William Ntladi says the Veld and Forest Act 1989 (Act 101 of 1998) and Environmental Management Act, 1989 (Act 73 of 1989) states it is illegal to start a veld fire without obtaining permission.
According to Ntladi, a fire started on any property should not spread in such a manner as to pose a threat to any human being, animal, building, premises or property.
Ntladi says premises are not permitted to become overgrown with grass, weeds, reeds, shrubs and trees to the extent that they pose a potential fire hazard to other properties in the area.
He says the owner of the stand must remove the fire hazard or ensure that the fire hazard is removed by:
n cutting grass to a maximum height of 150 mm above ground level,
n cutting around any shrubs or trees which may be in the area,
n pruning or chopping down the shrubs or trees,
n removing all chopped or sawn-off residue from the premises.
“The dangers of veld fires include people inhaling smoke which could affect their health, and the obstruction of vision while driving resulting in the high possibility of an accident to both pedestrians and drivers,” says Ntladi.
“Properties are lost due to veld fires and structures with thatch roofs are more vulnerable to fire.”
Ntladi warns those who do not comply with the laws will be guilty of an offence and liable to pay a fine.
