Simple Steps to Protect Your Home This Fire Season

ONE SPARK IS ALL IT TAKES - A SAFER FIRE SEASON STARTS AT HOME

All it takes is one spark. With the southeaster blowing, a small fire can quickly become a devastating wildfire.

To help raise awareness of fire prevention and safety, the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre, within the Department of Local Government, is joining forces with Overstrand Municipality, CapeNature, Working on Fire and other emergency and safety partners for a Fire Awareness Campaign in Hawston on 20 October 2026.

This year’s fire awareness campaign slogan is “Resilience Starts at Home.” The campaign reminds residents that simple precautions can help prevent fires and protect our homes, properties and communities as we head into the fire season.

BE PROACTIVE - PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

Around your home:

• Cut back overhanging tree branches
• Clean your gutters
• Remove dead shrubs, dry leaves and other garden debris
• Clear away unnecessary rubble and other flammable materials

If your property borders or is close to an undeveloped area, create a buffer zone by clearing flammable vegetation along your property boundaries and keeping the grass short. This can help slow the spread of a fire.

WHEN OUTDOORS:

• Only make braai fires in designated areas
• Never leave an open fire unattended. Make sure it is completely extinguished before leaving
• Dispose of cigarette butts responsibly. Never throw them out of a car window or into vegetation
• Do not dump waste on pavements or vacant plots. Apart from being illegal, dumped waste can provide fuel for a fire

SAVE THIS NUMBER

In an emergency, contact Overstrand Municipality Fire & Rescue on 028 312 2400. Save the number on your cellphone and make sure your children know it too.

Issued by:

Overstrand Acting Municipal Manager, Edward Jantjies