The Causes Behind the Crisis

Several factors contribute to this alarming rise. Climate change remains a primary driver, with warmer temperatures and prolonged drought creating ideal conditions for wildfires. Additionally, human activities – such as increased land use especially within the urban-wildland interface, outdoor activities in fire-prone areas, and unsafe practices like unattended open fires – continue to ignite more wildland fires.

Always Prepared to Respond

In light of this worsening situation, the Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture is ramping up efforts in collaboration with partners and stakeholders to manage and contain wildfires. Our dedicated team of over 5,300 firefighters, supported by 48 pilots, 4 bombers, 11 Huey helicopters, 15 spotter aircraft and 18 Aircraft Support Vehicles, stands ready to mobilise and protect vulnerable communities.

Kishugu Fleet, a key partner in these firefighting efforts, has supplied a diverse range of vehicles to the Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture across various provinces. These include twelve fire trucks, ten strike units, 64 crew buses, 84 light delivery vehicles (LDVs), nine station wagons, and 20 water trailers.

This extensive fleet has facilitated the swift deployment of firefighting teams, equipment, and water supplies, significantly enhancing the efficiency of both firefighting and fire prevention efforts across the country.

Training is crucial; the Kishugu Training Academy has been proactive in ensuring that our firefighters are well-prepared through the provision of accredited training. Refresher training at Yellow Card Training Camps equips them to handle the increasing challenges posed by wildfires. WOF firefighters have been acclaimed at home and abroad as they have been called up on 6 occasions by our partners in Canada.

Following the death of six community members, seven volunteer firefighters (unrelated to Working on Fire – Kishugu Joint Venture) in KwaZulu-Natal, a fire manager in Gauteng, and a farm worker in North West in June this year, we urge all partners and stakeholders to engage with us to address training needs and improve safety measures for community volunteers.

Fire Safety Starts with You

Public awareness is vital in preventing wildfires. We urge everyone to stay vigilant, especially in fire-prone areas. Simple actions—such as avoiding open flames in high-risk zones, adhering to local fire bans, and reporting any signs of smoke—can significantly reduce the number of wildfires and their devastating impacts.

The Importance of Prevention

As we confront this growing threat, prevention is paramount. The lessons learned from this record-breaking year must drive stronger community education, awareness programs, and enforcement of fire safety regulations. Collaboration among government agencies, fire management organisations, and local communities will be essential in mitigating the impact of future fire seasons.

At a recent media briefing on October 15, 2024, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, called on all South Africans to take responsibility for protecting our communities and environment from wildfires. She emphasised that preventing wildfires is a collective effort that requires vigilance and proactive measures from all.

The Winter fire season affecting the Northern half of our country typically draws to a close at the end of October. We then prepare for the Summer fire season in the Western and parts of the Eastern Cape, which last December experienced a record number of fires in December. As we face the reality of climate change influencing fire seasons, we can reduce risks and better protect our communities through preparedness, awareness, and collaborative action.