23 July 2010

The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development urges all farmers and land users to prepare themselves in combating possible veld fires occurring throughout the province. Large parts of the Northern Cape Province are prone to veld fires, especially this time of the year.

These sporadic blazes are in the main sparked by the natural state of the vegetations as well as the prevailing winds resulting from the winter season climate conditions that are favourable for runaway veld fires.

The department is also appealing to motorist not to throw away cigarettes buds when driving and people must not leave fires unattended. Annually, veld fires result in disastrous losses of natural grazing, animals and infrastructure and in some instance can lead to the loss of human lives. Veld fires are a serious threat to the agricultural sector, and land users/ farmers are requested to adhere to the following:

• Ensure fire-fighting equipments are easily accessible and in good working conditions;
• Be aware of and participate in the local Fire Protection Association (FPA) activities and plans;
• Control and restrict open fires (e.g Creation of veld fires belts; and
• Monitor the farm/ land for possible veld fires regularly and report fires immediately to local Fire Protection Association, Municipalities, Extension Officers and South African Police, and have the relevant contact numbers at hand.

The Department’s Sustainable Resource Management division will continuously monitor conditions and warnings will be issued to stakeholders. END

Issued by: Directorate Communication Services - Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development

Enquiries: Phemelo Manankong -External Communications Officer
Tel: 053 839 7881
Cell: 071 889 5138
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.agrinc.gov.za