MEC FOR COGTA IN MPUMALANGA URGES COMMUNITIES TO PREVENT VELD FIRES

MEC FOR COGTA IN MPUMALANGA URGES COMMUNITIES TO PREVENT VELD FIRES

MEC for Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in Mpumalanga, Hon. Simon Skhosana urges communities to prevent the causes of veld fire. The May and August months considered a high risk period for the spread of veld fires during the winter season. "We urge communities especially in the informal settlements to take precautionary measures against the spread of veld fires", says Mr Skhosana.

Mpumalanga is prone to veld fires. COGTA has embarked on an awareness campaign to educate communities about the dangers of fires. Mr Skhosana has advised people not to throw away burning cigarettes stubs in the open as this may cause veld fires. Mr Skhosana issued the following precautionary measures to prevent potential fires:

·    Do not throw away burning cigarette stubs in the open veld

·    Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach

·    Do not leave open fires (imbawula) unattended, especially indoors

·    Do not put candles where they have a high chance of falling over, instead cut candles in half and place them in candles holders

·    Never leave paraffin appliances unattended and always put them in flat firm surfaces

·    Do not leave children unattended to where there are open fires and/or candles

Mr Skhosana urged communities to contact the department’s Disaster Management toll free number in case of emergencies. The number is: 0800 202 507.