FIRE SEASON WARNING!

Be safe. Be vigilant.

At long last, winter seems to be a thing of the past: The days are getting longer, the sun is out, and there’s hardly a cloud in the sky.

Unfortunately, the one element that steadfastly refuses to take its leave is the wind: Yes, it might have changed direction, but it remains as unpredictable as ever.

During summer, the prevailing southeaster has a tendency to gust out of the blue. It might die down just as quickly, or decide to blow for days on end. Given that summer is the “dry” season in the Western Cape, the indigenous vegetation in and around our towns and villages becomes brittle and, in combination with the plant debris that inevitably accumulates over time, is highly susceptible to wildfires.

All it takes is one spark; the southeaster will do the rest. Surely, no-one needs to be reminded just how devastating these wildfires can be. Nevertheless, as is custom at the onset of the fire season, we yet again urge residents to make sure that the necessary precautionary steps are taken to safeguard their properties and appeal to everyone to remain on high alert for the duration of the fire season.

*BE PROACTIVE*

On your property:

* Cut back overhanging tree branches. 
* Clean the gutters.
* Remove shrivelled shrubs and any other plant debris. 
* Get rid of unnecessary rubble.

If your property borders on or is located near an undeveloped area, it is advisable to establish a buffer zone: Create a “fire break” by removing all flammable shrubs along the borders of your property and by keeping the lawn trimmed.

Out in the open:

* Only make braai fires in designated areas.
* Never leave open fires unattended and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving.
* Always dispose of cigarette butts responsibly: Don’t flick them out the car window or into a vegetated patch.
* Do not dump anything on sidewalks or vacant erven: This is not only against the law, but serves as fuel for runaway fires.

PROTECTING LIVES & HOMES IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY

Even though Overstrand Municipality goes out of its way to take every possible precautionary measure in preparation for the fire season and, in conjunction with its partners (goFPA, Overberg District Municipality, CapeNature), work hard to manage brush fires across the district, all will be in vain if residents do not offer their full cooperation. We not only ask that you safeguard your own property but also to be extra vigilant.

Should you see any signs of smoke or a fire, call Fire & Rescue on 028 312 2400 immediately. Early reporting can make all the difference.

In the event of a fire, it is essential to allow emergency vehicles immediate and unhindered access. Be sure to keep the roads clear by avoiding unnecessary travel near active zones and refraining from “sightseeing” during mop-up operations.

In short, the outcome of the 2025/26 fire season is dependent on the level of cooperation. Please do your bit.

Issued by: 
Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dean O’Neill