With winter upon us again so are uncontrolled grass fires.
“In past seasons, City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services had to deal with several graphic road accidents and structural fires because of uncontrolled and unmonitored grass fires. Unfortunately, in some instances, lives were lost,” said William Ntladi, spokesperson for the emergency services.
Winter is associated with cold temperatures, dry vegetation and strong winds, all factors which increase the possibility of grass fires.
Inappropriate disposal of domestic garden vegetation, he says, is still a common practice by many residents which increases fire risks.
“Grass fires can start and spread quickly and are extremely dangerous to life and property. They can run at a very high speed in accordance to the speed and direction of the wind,” said Ntladi.
“They can emit dense smoke obscuring vision, irritating eyes and negatively affecting those with chronic lung diseases. At the worst, it can cause respiratory complications. Major grass fires next to major routes could lead to serious accidents.”
The possible causes of grass fires are:
• Spontaneous ignition of dry vegetation
• Lit cigarette butts.
• Direct and deliberate cause
• Chemical reaction.
Prevention of grass fires:
• Smokers should refrain from throwing lit cigarette butts away. This is a common practice.
• Avoid burning combustibles on windy, dry days. When conditions are windy or dry, it is easy for open flames to spread uncontrollably.
• Glass can magnify the sun rays and start the fire, do not leave them on dry grass.
• Matches and lighters in the wrong hands can lead to a fire. Children shouldn’t be allowed to play with such.
• Avoid overgrown, dense and dry vegetation next to dwellings. They pose a danger to the structures.
• Never leave campfires unattended. Extinguish them properly after use.
• Thatch roof structures are subjected to fires. Extinguish braai fires immediately after use. Do not leave braai fires unattended.
• Do not use flammable liquids to burn bush, trash or other waste.
According to the Veld and Forest Act and Environmental Management Act, no person may make an open, uncontrollable or unattended fire or permit a fire to be made in such a manner as to pose a real or potential threat to any human being, animal, building, premises or other properties. Permission for such needs to be obtained from the local Chief Fire Officer.
