Fire breaks to be rolled out across the province following the successful launch of the provincial winter season disaster awareness campaign, which was held at Obuka, in the Mthonjaneni Local Municipality today.
The launch marks an important chapter in the rollout of the provinces disaster risk mitigation plan.
Through the campaign communities are educated on several issues, such as:
- Correct use of generators, gas, candles and paraffin stoves;
- Veldfire awareness;
- House fire and informal settlements fire awareness
*Strong Winds; - Illegal connection;
- Drought; and
- Snowfall
The launch of the campaign comes as the province grapples with the weather conditions brought about by the winter season.
During the launch of the campaign, we visited the Mpungose family where we oversaw the burning of firebreaks by our disaster management teams.
The firebreaks prevent runaway fires from reaching human settlements.
The department in partnership with municipalities is rolling out the firebreaks in rural communities as part of the winter season disaster risk mitigation strategy.
During the launch MEC was joined by Inkosi Biyela who commended the department for rolling out the programme in his community, which is one of the most affected areas especially by veld fires and lightning strikes.
Through this campaign the department of Cogta will work closely with disaster management teams at municipal level and Non Governmental Organisations to educate communities.
Issued by the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sipho Hlomuka
Ends