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AfriForum is warning communities in the north of the country to exercise extreme vigilance due to the high temperatures expected this weekend.

The fire danger index for the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West is currently red, meaning that conditions are particularly favourable for the onset and rapid spread of wildfires.

Hot, dry and windy conditions can easily lead to wildfires that not only cause extensive damage but can also endanger lives.

“AfriForum urges everyone to be responsible and prepared and to report wildfires to their nearest fire protection association and fire service. Wildfires can become life-threatening within minutes and the damage is often irreparable. Cooperation from communities is essential to limit the danger,” says Tarien Cooks, Disaster Management Specialist at AfriForum.

AfriForum calls on communities and landowners to act responsibly and provides the following guidelines:

• Do not light open fires: Fires may only be made in designated areas such as braai areas.
• Limit welding and grinding work in open fields: Where it is essential, sufficient fire extinguishing equipment must be available on site. Sparks from machinery can lead to wildfires.
• Be fire-ready: Landowners must ensure that their personnel and firefighting equipment are ready to respond quickly. A wildfire that is extinguished early prevents major damage. Additional resources can be placed on standby.
• Water tanks: Ensure that water tanks are kept full for water refilling. If an area is prone to power outages, preparations must be made to keep the water tanks full.
• Protect houses and structures: Clean and trim back vegetation around houses, especially where there are thatched roofs. Have a hose or spray equipment ready to water thatched roofs if a wildfire breaks out in the area.

Issued by AfriForum