Cape Town firefighters respond to over 600 vegetation fires in one week

The City of Cape Town reports that in just a week it responded to 632 vegetation fires while fire teams continue to douse flames along the Overberg municipality, which has been contained but posed a threat to the Houw Hoek Hotel.

According to the Overberg Municipality and the Greater Overberg FPA, much of the hard work done along the slopes and rocky patches paid off while fire “lines” were still being attended to. Firefighters and volunteers have been battling the blaze since Saturday between Bredasdorp and Napier, which threatened farmland and businesses.

The City's Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, confirmed that more than 600 vegetation fires were attended to in a week. “In the last week between November 10 and November 17, our Fire and Rescue Service responded to 632 vegetation fires,” Smith said.

“The strong south-easterly wind that has been very prominent since the start of November has been a contributing factor.

“Most of these vegetation fires required multiple resources, with crews working for hours, under trying circumstances, to bring the fires under control.

“We urge the public to be vigilant, especially on days where we are experiencing hot and windy conditions.

“Our Public Emergency Communication Centre number is 021 480 7700. Save it to your phone and report any type of emergency, including fires. Do not assume someone else has reported it, especially if there are no emergency services present yet.

“Also remember to provide as many details as possible to lock in the location and ensure a speedy and appropriate response.

“Think landmarks, like bridges, street names, or big intersections or buildings in the vicinity. This is incredibly useful when relaying information to Emergency Communicators.”

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Cape Argus