Greater Kokstad Municipality (GKM) is urging all residents to exercise extreme caution as we enter the peak of fire season. During the month of June, Kokstad has experienced three major fires that have left families homeless, businesses devastated, and counting significant losses.
These incidents serve as a painful reminder that fire can spread rapidly and destroy in minutes what took years to build. Winter conditions, dry vegetation, strong winds, and the increased use of heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves, candles and open fires create a high risk for both domestic and veld fires.
South African fire authorities warn that dry winter conditions and windy weather significantly increase the likelihood of uncontrolled fires. Residents are urged to keep heaters, braziers and open flames away from curtains, furniture and other flammable materials. Please always extinguish any fires completely before leaving them unattended.
Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children. Ensure electrical plugs and extension cords are not overloaded. Clear dry grass, leaves and other combustible materials around your property. Keep emergency numbers readily available. Report veld fires immediately when spotted. Have a family emergency evacuation plan in place.
Ensure gas cylinders and appliances are regularly checked for leaks and faults. Furthermore, residents are cautioned not to leave candles, stoves, heaters or cooking unattended. Not burn rubbish during windy conditions. Not throw cigarette butts from vehicles or into open veld. Not allow children to play with matches, lighters or open fires.
Not overload electrical sockets and extension leads. Do not use petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids to start fires. Never attempt to fight large fires on your own, call emergency services immediately on 039 797 6659/039 7275733 available 24hours. In case of fire it is imperative that we stay calm and move everyone to safety.
Alert emergency services immediately. Stay low to avoid smoke inhalation. Do not re-enter a burning building for any reason. Move away from the fire area and allow emergency personnel to do their work. The safety of our community is everyone’s responsibility.
Let us work together to prevent further tragedies and protect lives, property, businesses and livelihoods. Remember: Fire doesn’t spread itself—it starts somewhere. Your caution today could save a life tomorrow.
