#WisdomWednesday: Farmer on preventing fires
VIDEO: Simon Mathysen, a concerned farmer in the Waterpan area shared a method he is using for preventing fires so that local farmers can be assured that their farms and homes are safe.
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The plague of fires in the Western Cape has motivated a farmer from Westonaria to find a solution.
Simon Mathysen, 68, is a farmer in the Waterpan area who is very concerned about the major fires that have wreaked havoc all over South Africa. He wanted to share a method of fire-prevention he is using, namely a product called Mine Marshal 8000, which is made by Fire Protection, so that local farmers can be assured that their farms and homes are safe.
Mathysen said the product is made of harmless chemicals and is safe to use around your home. You can find out more information about the product and how to buy it by registering on https://fireprotection.co.za/.
“A fire can start anywhere and if you’re not prepared, your house or farm will burn to ashes before you can stop it. I’m also concerned about townships and informal settlements, because these people will lose everything if a fire breaks out,” he said.
He said that this product not only stops fires from spreading, but can also prevent them from starting.
“The product has been used in the mining industry for years but I have found that it can also be used on farms or in your home. The treatment can last up to 10 years and will stop a fire from spreading. Farmers can use it in their fields and people in townships can use it inside their homes and around the townships.”
He demonstrated the product to the Herald by setting light to a piece of paper treated with the product, and the product prevented the flames from spreading.
“If this is what it can do to a piece of paper, imagine how fast it can stop a veld fire from spreading. Farmers need to stand together and help each other. By preventing fires from spreading you’re not only helping yourself; you are helping your neighbours as well.”
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