With the winter’s dry season already here, the City of Mbombela and the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs have warned against the trend of starting random fires.
The winter season has already seen many people losing their lives, homes and belongings to fire. According to Santam statistics, almost 99% of all fires are caused by human negligence and may result in loss of human life.
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The City of Mbombela’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, said all the fire engines stationed at Mbombela, KaBokweni, KaNyamazane and White River are roadworthy and ready. “In addition, the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison have standby teams ready for backup and on-duty crews in case there is a need,” Ngala said.
Working on Fire Programme:
More than 450 veld and forest firefighters from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment’s Working on Fire (WOF) programme in the province are ready to be dispatched to emergencies.
WOF also held a recruitment drive at five bases to beef up its teams ahead of the season. A total of 15 recruits were selected and joined the eManzana, Belfast, Balfour, Sasol and Wilgeboom teams.
The firefighters were hard at work prior to the season, preparing for Yellow Card Training Camps. This training consisted of a theoretical test and a fitness assessment. They also participated in a 10km march to test their teamwork, endurance and strength as they can be expected to go for long hours, combating fire.
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The general manager of WOF, Martin Bolton, urged communities to be more vigilant during this fire season and to not start unnecessary fires, particularly during the dry and cold days this winter. “We appeal to community members to remove overgrown vegetation on their properties, which can pose a serious fire risk. Properties next to grasslands need to ensure there are sufficient firebreaks between their properties and these grasslands,” Bolton said.
Tips to follow to prevent fire:
• Do not leave any open fire unattended, especially cooking fire and braai areas
• Ensure that lighting materials like matches and lighters are kept away from children
• Avoid using heaters and braziers when sleeping
• Used approved appliances and electricity plugs to avoid explosions
• Do not throw live cigarette butts or matchsticks in the veld
• All fire hazards should be at least 5m away from grass, as it is dry during winter.
Emergency numbers:
• City of Mbombela fire department: 013 753 3331
• Disaster Management Centre: 012 848 4602
• Medical emergency: 10111 or 10177.
