Field burns down

A veld fire broke out on Sunday, 4 May, which burnt down a field in Coligny Street.

What began as a smoulder, quickly turned into a blaze, with smoke clouds filling the area.

The cause of the fire is unknown and no one was injured.

Mr John Kock, Chief Fire Officer, said people should be alert to increasing veld fires in the winter.

“Property owners should keep their grass short and make firebreaks to prevent fires from spreading.

“In the case where a farmer or property owner has not made a firebreak and it spreads to a neighbouring farm or property, that person will be held liable for all damages caused.

“Residents should also be aware of fire hazards on their properties.

“Hazards must be managed and controlled.” Mr Kock urged people who use portable stoves (mostly in the rural communities) to ensure that they are closed off and do not cause fires.

He also said the carbon monoxide released from the coal is harmful to a person’s health.

Farmers can also join the Lekwa Fire Protection Association.

For more information contact Messrs Louis Kotze at 017 712 1145 or Kock at 082 855 3497.