Dewetsdorp Fire Protection Association Chairperson Johann Breytenbach says the Fire Danger Index for the Southern Free State area tomorrow is almost at its maximum, registering 97 out of a possible 100. He says he has never seen it this high, adding that the heat, dry conditions and very strong winds have combined to create extreme fire weather conditions.

Breytenbach says it is not just land owners who are subject to the Veld and Forest Fire Act 101 of 1998, but also members of the general public:

He is urging extreme caution for at least the next ten days. This includes a total ban on open fires, as well as caution when working with power tools like grinders and welders that can cause sparks. Care must be taken when disposing of hot ashes and even cigarette butts. Meanwhile Working on Fire Teams have been deployed to at least eight fires across the province, while numerous farmers and land owners are also involved in fighting other fires.

Sabrina Dean/OFM News