The fire season is here and last Wednesday firefighters proved that they are ready for any fire related incidents when a large fire broke out and caused the closing of the N2 at Grabouw for a while.
Two days after the fire near Kromco was contained, the QR choppers and fire ground teams were once again called out to a new fire near the Eskom substation along the N2.
The fires were reported days after Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, launched the provincial fire-plan initiative in Stellenbosch.
The worrying fact, he said, is that 25% of wildfires are started intentionally while 75% are as result of negligence. He said less than 3% of wildfires have natural causes, such as lightning or rockfalls.
“Last season, a total of 7 215 wildfires broke out in the Western Cape. The provincial government approved air support for 38 of these. A total of 85% of fires in identified high-risk areas were contained in the initial attack phase – most in the first hour. With a view to the coming season, the Western Cape government has budgeted R16 million for wildfire responses.”
The Overberg District Municipality Fire and Disaster Management team launched its Fire Season Readiness on Monday 4 December, at the Disaster Management Centre in Bredasdorp.
ODM Deputy Mayor, Alderman Helen Coetzee, thanked role-players for their continued support and efforts in ensuring the Disaster Centre has the necessary equipment and that the firefighters are trained and skilled.
Coetzee and a representative from Santam cut the ribbon to officially open a new container, which will be used for training.
Cape Agulhas Municipality Executive Mayor Paul Swart was also in attendance to receive fire extinguisher trolleys that will greatly assist the municipality with their firefighting efforts.
The Overstrand Municipality Fire Department is also geared for this fire season.
“One never knows what the fire season will bring us; but it’s advisable to be as prepared as possible,” Dean O’Neill, the municipal manager said.
He added that it is imperative for all property owners to be aware of their responsibility to prevent an accumulation of combustible material, including vegetative matter, on their premises.
Owners of undeveloped, overgrown erven are urged to help reduce risks of ignition and the spread of fires to adjacent residences and veld by taking the following fire safety precautions:. Ensure their roofs and gutters are clean and that their driveway has been cleared of overhanging vegetation and can accommodate a fire engine;. Do not to store flammable materials such as gas cylinders below decks or verandas;. Cut vegetation back and remove debris around your home.
If you see smoke contact Overstrand Fire and Rescue on 028 312 2400 without delay.
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