Residents and even neighbouring areas have noticed many fire incidents recently and while many might be looking forward to spring, West Rand Emergency Services would like to remind the public it is still the fire season.
The Krugersdorp News approached regional commander Gerhard Nieuwoudt, who explained why there is an increase in veld fires this time of the year.
Nieuwoudt said that the fire season starts at around the end of March but extends to the end of September. He further revealed there are an average of five to six veld fires per day and this does not include structural fires.
• Also read: Veld fire next to R28 causing disruptions … again
“Veld fires are seasonal and can be caused by dry grass catching alight. It then quickly spreads when the wind picks up. Unfortunately, people are not always aware of the extreme dangers of veld fires,” Nieuwoudt said.
He continued to say the best way to prevent veld fires at your residence is to cut long grass on your property, especially those who reside near a kloof or veld.
“Sometimes it is best to only report veld fires when it poses the risk of burning down structures or has the potential to endanger someone’s life. When people report random veld fires that do not pose any risks, they will probably burn down four to five more times after we extinguish it, and wastes our resources. I want to encourage the community to only report fires that pose danger, and what are only emergencies to us,” he said.
• Also read: Cloud of smoke along R28 due to big veld fire
Working on Fire’s Kishugu Joined Venture provincial communications officer Parapara Makgahlela said the province recorded 137 veld fires since the start of the winter fire season.
“An estimated 4 688 hectares of grassland vegetation has been scorched by veld fires. There is a surge in terms of the fires this month. The vegetation is currently dry and the impact of climate change would exacerbate the intensity, frequency, and spread of veld fires. We urge people not to leave a fire unattended or start fires or throw away burning cigarette buds,” said Makgahlela.
You can contact the West Rand Emergency Services on 011 951 3000.
