With every seasonal change comes seasonal effects. Potchefstroom experiences several wildfires (also known as veld fires) in winter and they have already occurred in many areas.
Veld fires, especially when uncontrolled, often have disastrous effects and severe consequences. They may damage property, farms or natural habitats and can even claim lives.
In a statement, William Maphosa, the municipal spokesperson, says some vegetation in the Highveld National Park and roadside signage of Sanral (SA National Road Agency Limited) was lost as a result of the wildfires. Fencing was also destroyed.
He added that Matlwang Village and informal settlements are also prone to veld fires. These settlements do not have routes that are suitable for fire response teams to move around freely and suppress them when they occur.
The Western Cape Government lists various causes of wildfires – open fires for cooking, burning debris, arson, discarded cigarette butts or lightning. Maphosa adds illegal electrical connections to the mix. He advised that people should not allow rubbish to accumulate or be burnt in open areas.
- Report the problem immediately – even if it may seem small. Call the emergency numbers 018 293 1111 or 018 293 1112.
- Wet your garden and house (especially on the side from which the fire is approaching) as veld fires thrive in dry conditions and surfaces
- Have medical supplies and emergency food ready
- You should decide whether it would be safer to stay or leave your home
- Wear protective clothing
- Develop a home fire escape plan and practise it
- If you have livestock, move them to a safer area
- Regularly listen to the radio for news updates
- Plug gutters (if you have) and fill them with water. You can also fill buckets, the bathtub or dustbins with water.
If the flames of fire engulf your home or property, never run back into the building. Your life is valuable. If you’re driving past a veld fire, drive slow, put your headlights on and keep a safe distance from the fire.
Maphosa says by law, as stated in National Veld and Forest Bill [B 122B – 98], landowners or occupiers are expected to prepare and maintain their firebreaks to control veld fires if the fire spreads onto their premises. This includes institutions like the University, state departments, Eskom, Sanral, SANDF, SAPS and many more.
The Department of Public Safety usually conducts awareness sessions for the public, where it provides information on how to follow fire safety measures, when necessary.
Residents are also advised to keep a 10-litre container filled with water in case of a fire emergency.