Residents of Tshwane are warned about veld fires that may easily turn into run-away fires that destroy property and livelihoods on farms and small holdings.
The South African Weather Service issued a warning about very dangerous conditions relating to grass fires. No pre-burns must be made for five days starting on 12 August 2015, especially during the strong winds and dry conditions that are expected to be with us for quite some time. Mr Johan Pieterse, City Of Tshwane Media Liaison Officer appealed to the public, especially those who live in thatched-roof houses or have thatched lapa’s close to open fields, to clean up the areas around their property. All fires have to be reported to Emergency Services as soon as they are noticed. Delays 
might lead to serious damage and even loss of life. When smoke engulfs any roadway or freeway, motorists must reduce speed and switch on hazard lights to warn oncoming traffic. “Close the car windows and air inlets to prevent smoke inhalation when driving through smoke. Make sure that you extinguish all open fires once you leave the area,” Mr Pieterse said.
He said special care must be taken when people make use of heating agents in the house by making sure that heaters are placed safely away from anything that might catch fire, and by switching off the heater before going to bed. Heating agents should never be left unattended or out of sight for a long time. No person is allowed to set fire to grass. Arson is a criminal offence.
Emergency numbers:
10177
012 310 6300/6400
