Fire season is upon us, what are your responsibilities?

The West Rand District Municipality’s Emergency Management Services would like to remind communities to be responsible as veld fire season approaches.

The statement from the office of WRDM’s Emergency Management Services read, “We would like to remind all land owners and Fire Protection Association (FPA) members in the district of their responsibility under the National Veld and Forest Fire Act 1998. This Act places an obligation on all land owners and FPA members to take measures to prevent the outbreak and spread of veld fires in their respective areas.”

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The statement also said that to ensure the safety of residents and properties they would like to outline some of the key responsibilities.

The first responsibility is the preparation of firebreaks.

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“Landowners are required to prepare and maintain fire breaks around their properties, while FPA members are responsible for ensuring that fire breaks are prepared and maintained in their designated areas.”

These firebreaks should be at least 10 meters wide and free from any flammable material such as grass, leaves, or branches. If you fail to comply with this responsibility it can result in a fine of up to R1 000 000 or imprisonment of up to two years.

The second responsibility is controlled burning. This is an important tool for preventing the spread of veld fires.

“However, landowners and FPA members must obtain the necessary permits before carrying out controlled burns. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in a fine of up to R100 000 or imprisonment of a period not exceeding 2 years.”

Reporting fires is the third responsibility. Landowners and FPA members must report any fire in their area to the emergency services as soon as possible by dialling 011 951 3000.

“Failure to comply with this responsibility can result in a fine of up to R100 000 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 2 years.”

Maintenance is the fourth responsibility. “It is important to ensure that all equipment used for fire prevention, such as fire extinguishers and water tanks, are in good working condition. FPA members should also ensure that access to firefighting equipment is unobstructed in their designated areas. Failure to comply with this responsibility can result in a fine of up to R50 000 or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 1 year.”

The last important thing is fire safety education. Landowners and FPA members have a responsibility to educate themselves, their employees, and tenants about fire safety and prevention.

“This can include information on the safe use of fire, as well as strategies for mitigating fire risks on the property.”

If you do not comply with these responsibilities the penalty can result in legal action being taken against the land owner of the FPA. Alternatively, if a veld fire breaks out in their area and spread to a neighbouring property they can be held liable for damages.

“We urge all landowners and FPA members to take these responsibilities seriously and to do their part in preventing veld fires during this season. By working together, we can help protect our community and its natural resources.”