- Urgent Fire Warning in Buffalo City Metro: Residents are urged to stay vigilant due to increasing veld and windy fires, which indicate a challenging winter ahead.
- Factors Contributing to Fire Risk: Winter wind and dry vegetation create ideal conditions for rapid fire spread, and increased use of paraffin and candles adds to hazards.
- Fire Safety Tips from BCM Fire Department: Key safety measures include turning off appliances during load shedding, checking gas leaks, and closing doors and windows to cut oxygen supply in case of fire.
Buffalo City Metro has issued a strong warning to residents to remain vigilant as veld and windy fires continue to increase in the area. Authorities caution that the fire outbreaks seen so far suggest a challenging winter season ahead.
The city notes that winter’s windy conditions and dry vegetation create the perfect environment for fires to spread rapidly. In addition, the cold weather is pleading with households to use paraffin and candles with care.
According to the BCM Fire Department, fires are made up of three elements flame, oxygen, and organic material. Removing any one of these can stop a fire. The department advises starting fire awareness with children, as they are often the cause of many fires. Other safety measures include switching off appliances or the main electrical box during load shedding, checking gas pipes for leaks, and closing all doors and windows if a house catches fire to cut off oxygen supply. Residents are urged not to attempt extinguishing fires themselves but to call the fire department immediately.
Key tips for preventing and controlling fires include knowing wind direction, approaching bushfires from the windward side to avoid smoke, cutting firebreaks on properties, and using backburning techniques only if trained, as in the case of forest fires.
Residents are encouraged to contact the fire department without delay on 043 705 9000 or 043 070 59890 when spotting a fire, as early intervention can save lives and prevent extensive damage.
