The Cape is experiencing a challenging fire season. With firefighters battling multiple blazes from Franschhoek to the Southern Cape, the province is facing increased pressure on emergency services. Whilst our brave firefighting teams work around the clock, the reality is that a large portion of uncontrolled fires start with human carelessness. Every citizen has a role to play in preventing fires and small actions can mean the difference between a minor incident and serious damage.
Dispose of Hot Materials Safely
Never underestimate the danger of hot ash and coals. After a braai or cooking fire, ensure all embers are completely cold before disposal. Dispose of hot ash and coal away from any flammable plant material or rubbish, preferably in a metal container with water. Even seemingly dead coals can reignite in the right conditions, particularly on hot, windy days that characterise our summer months.
Never Leave Fires Unattended
Do not leave open fires unattended and smother them with sand once you no longer need them. If you’re camping, cooking outdoors, or enjoying a fire pit, someone should always be present. Before leaving, ensure the fire is completely extinguished – not just out, but cold to the touch. On high fire danger days, avoid lighting any fires altogether.
Check Electrical Connections
Make sure there are no illegal electrical connections in or near your home. Illegal and faulty electrical connections can get hot and start a fire. Have a qualified electrician inspect your wiring regularly, particularly in older homes or outbuildings. Overloaded extension cords and faulty appliances are common culprits in both structural and vegetation fires.
Be Mindful of Cigarettes and Debris
Discarded cigarette butts are a significant fire risk. Never toss cigarettes from car windows or onto the ground in vegetated areas. Make your friends accountable and speak up if you see this behaviour.
Similarly, be extremely cautious when burning garden refuse. What starts as a controlled burn can quickly spiral out of control when wind conditions change unexpectedly.
Report Fires Immediately
Early detection is critical in preventing preventing fires spreading to the point where they become unmanageable. Reporting a fire quickly can mean the difference between minor damage and total devastation.
Save these numbers on your phone: City of Cape Town residents should call 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cell phone.
Other areas can dial 112 from a cell phone or 10177 from a landline. Report any sign of smoke or fire, no matter how small it appears.
What you should do if you spot a fire:
– Try to provide the exact location of the fire.
– Mention the time you first spotted it.
– If possible, include photos and note if emergency services are already on scene.
Prepare Your Property
Create defensible space around your home by clearing dry vegetation, maintaining firebreaks, and ensuring gutters are clear of leaves. Know your evacuation routes and, if you live in a high-risk area, have an emergency kit at the ready.
How You Can Support Firefighters
Our firefighters and volunteers work tirelessly to protect our communities, often for extended periods in harsh conditions. Here are practical ways you can help:
Donate to Fire Relief Organisations
Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS), the largest volunteer firefighting organisation in South Africa, relies entirely on public and corporate donations. You can donate via their website at vws.org.za or by EFT to their account (email for details and Section 18A tax certificates).
The Firefighters Relief Fund purchases and delivers medical supplies, food, and refreshments directly to firefighters battling Western Cape fires. Visit firefightersfund.co.za to contribute.
Drop Off Supplies at Your Local Fire Station
One of the easiest ways to assist is to donate items directly to your local fire station. Other helpful items include:
– High-energy snacks and protein bars
– Electrolyte drinks and bottled water
– Eye drops for smoke irritation
– Lip balm and sunscreen
– Fresh fruit
– Ready-to-eat meals
Contact your nearest fire station first to check what’s most needed and confirm drop-off times.
Prepare Meals for Crews
If you’re a keen cook, consider preparing hearty meals that can be easily transported and served to exhausted crews. Soups, stews, sandwiches, and baked goods are always appreciated. Coordinate with your local fire station or volunteer organisations to arrange delivery.
The fires affecting our province are a collective challenge requiring collective action. By practising vigilance, following fire safety measures, and supporting those on the front lines, each of us can help protect our communities, our natural heritage, and the brave firefighters risking their lives for our safety. Check our recipe section for ideas.
Thank you to the firefighters and volunteers who tirelessly work to keep us safe.
