Prevent unwanted veld fires this Winter!

MBOMBELA – The Department of Environmental Affairs’ Working on Fire (WoF) programme is warning communities in the province to be vigilant in preventing unwanted veld fires this winter.

Last year the province recorded the worst fire season in seven years and a total of 447 fires were successfully suppressed by the members of WoF.

“If it wasn’t for the hard work and dedication by 24 teams comprising 450 firefighters in total stationed throughout the province, the damage to property and the environment could have been much worse,” explained Nothando Shezi, spokesperson for WoF in te province. She added that most of the fires that ravaged the province had mainly been caused by human negligence.

WoF’s general manager, Mr Martin Bolton, has hence requested members of the community to take ownership in reducing the number of unwanted veld fires this year.
“Unwanted veld fires can cause loss of life, damage to property and destroy the environment,” said Bolton.

Safety tips to prevent unwanted fires:

• If possible make firebreaks around your home, use a mower, spade or rake to trim branches near your home and clear roofs and gutters of any leaves and twigs
• Remove all rubbish, leaf litter and shrubs growing too close to your home. Keep the grass short and green
• Store wood, fuel and paints well clear of the house
• If possible check if you have adequate insurance cover for veld fires
• Dispose of refuse responsibly
• Do not illegally burn refuse, tyres and plastics
• Extinguish and dispose of cigarettes, coals and firewood properly in a safe place
• Be cautious of fireworks as it can cause veld fires.