It’s been an expensive month for the Western Cape after the costs of controlling fires began to add up. How much does it cost to keep the flames at bay? Millions. Tens of millions.
The figures
R10.168 million is the figure the Western Cape is looking at after adding up some of the costs. “Up to the end of January, we have already provided support in 14 major wildfires and dozens of smaller fires at a cost of R10.168m to the provincial disaster budget,” said Anton Bredell, MEC of local government, environmental affairs and development planning in a statement.
Realistically, the figure is much larger considering that the Cape Winelands Municipality has attended to 75 fires in seven days and the costs are still in their calculation phase.
The municipalities also contribute toward the operations, which again adjusts the amount.
Small fires, big costs
One of the biggest expenses, according to Brendell, is aerial support. It can cost up to R78 000 an hour for a large helicopter. However, these are essential because they prevent small fires from turning into runaway fires. Spotter planes cost around R4000 per hour.
The most prominent fire of the month goes to…
The Kleinmond fires were said to have been the most prominent due to the amount of damage caused (over 5300 hectares worth).
Fire season is still in our midst
Fire prevention and reporting is everyone’s business. The earlier a fire is reported, the quicker the fire services can evaluate the situation and deploy the correct resource.
The CWDM’s Chief Fire Officer, Wayne Josias, cautions, “Avoid making fires on the very hot days when there is a high fire index, when conditions are favourable for a veldfire. In this hot weather, the ground and plants are very dry and even a small spark, if it lands on the right spot, can have catastrophic consequences.”
- During this very hot season, it is advisable to pack cold foods and enjoy a picnic rather than lighting a fire, even when there are designated braai areas.
- Hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners and campers should be extra vigilant while out and about in the heat. Always tell a family member or friend which trail you will be following and when they can expect you back. As such, your family can alert authorities and your safe evacuation can be arranged, if required.
- Landowners and farmers should ensure that all flammable vegetation situated on the borders of property/orchards and on fire breaks are cleared away.
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