Update on WC’s fire season readiness sought

Dear Editor

I will be inviting Provincial Minister Anton Bredell to appear before the Standing Committee on Local Government in order to provide details on the Western Cape Government’s plans for fire season.

While the Western Cape’s summer months bring pleasant weather and the economic boon of tourism, they also heighten the danger posed by fire. As a result, the Standing Committee will be working to ensure that necessary measures are taken to keep the Western Cape safe from the risks posed by wildfires.

While the Western Cape’s ecosystems often experience fire naturally, the effects of climate change mean that the annual fire season lasts longer, and creates more intense fires that pose a greater risk to lives and property. Fortunately, the Western Cape’s world-class disaster management infrastructure remains on high alert, and ready to respond to any possible wildfires. Years of investment by the Western Cape Government have ensured that the Western Cape is fully equipped to respond to wildfires quickly and effectively, thus minimising damage and destruction.

Despite this, we all have a responsibility to remain vigilant, and to take action that reduces the risk of fire. I call on all of our citizens to ensure that they are cautious with fire, and to refrain from irresponsibly discarding items such as cigarette butts. Should any member of the public see fire or smoke, I would urge them to report it to their local district municipality as soon as possible, as responding to fires early and before they have a chance to grow is one of the most effective ways in which to curb the destructive effects of wildfires.

The numbers to report fires are as follows:

• City of Cape Town: 107, or 021 480 7700 from a cell phone
• Overberg: 028 425 1690
• West Coast: 022 433 8700
• Garden Route: 044 805 5071
• Central Karoo: 023 414 2603
• Cape Winelands: 021 887 4446

In order to ensure that every possible step is being taken to control the risk of fire, I have addressed parliamentary questions on the readiness of the Western Cape’s Disaster Management Centres to the Provincial Department of Local Government. Together, we can ensure that every possible measure is taken in the fight against the devastation of fire season.

Regards

Derrick America, MPP
DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Local Government