The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is calling on farmers and land users to be alert, and prepare for the fire season which is upon us. The priority must be to reduce the risk of veld fires as well as preparedness to combat veld fires that might occur. In the 2010/11 financial about 130 000 hectares of grazing land in Frances Baard and John Taolo Gaetsewe Districts were consumed by veld fires.

Annually, veld fires result in disastrous loss of natural grazing land, animals and in some instance it has lead to the loss of human life. The department is also making a plea to motorist not to throw away live cigarettes butts through car windows.

These sporadic fires are in the main caused by the aridness of grass and scrub as well as the prevailing winds. The dryness of vegetation coupled with the winds that are constantly changing directions creates perfect conditions for runaway veld fires to ignite.

Veld fires are a serious threat to the agricultural sector, and land users are urged to adhere to the following risk reduction measures:

* 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 fire belts; and
* Braai fires must never be left unattended especially on or near dry vegetation.
* Monitor hotspots for possible veld fire outbreaks and report them immediately to local Fire Protection Association, municipalities, the Extension Office or South African Police Service or, and have the relevant contact numbers at hand.

Farmers and land users are advised to contact their respective municipalities in the following numbers to report veld fires:

It is unfortunate that thousands of hectares of farm land has already been destroyed in some of the provinces. Hundreds farm animals have perished and regrettably loss of human life has also occurred. The department is closely monitoring the situation in the province and ready to deploy resources and personnel to assist in dealing with outbreaks of fires on farms. 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 5112

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
www.agrinc.gov.za

DATE: 30 AUGUST 2011