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10 December 2024 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality ready for the 2024/2025 Summer Fire Season

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality ready for the 2024/2025 Summer Fire Season

10 December 2024

Last week, on 5–6 December 2024, the National Fire Services Indaba took place at the King George Hotel in George. Fire service delegates from across South Africa gathered under the theme, “Strengthening Fire Services and Building Resilient Communities Across South Africa.” This event brought together industry experts to discuss critical fire-related topics, share best practices, and foster collaboration, all aimed at enhancing fire services and community resilience nationwide.

On the first day of the event, the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, one of the guest speakers, launched and affirmed GRDM’s readiness for the 2024/2025 Summer Fire Season to the media, fire services, and dignitaries present.

The GRDM, in collaboration with its stakeholders, declared its readiness for the fire season, highlighting its commitment to protecting communities, property, and the environment from the threat of wildfires.

Elevated Risks During the Summer Season

The fire season, spanning the Summer months until March, brings heightened risks of veld and mountain fires due to rising temperatures, climatic conditions like lightning strikes, and human-related causes. Mayor Andrew Stroebel emphasized that while wildfires can occur year-round, this period demands increased vigilance and proactive measures.

Collaboration: Fire Is Everyone’s Fight

Acknowledging that effective fire management requires a collective effort, GRDM extends its gratitude to its Integrated Fire Management partners, including:

  • The Southern Cape Fire Protection Association
  • CapeNature
  • SANParks
  • The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment
  • PG Bison Forestry and Mountain-to-Ocean Forestry
  • Working on Fire
  • Local municipalities of Bitou, Knysna, George, Mossel Bay, Hessequa, Oudtshoorn, and Kannaland

“Their dedication to fire prevention and suppression is a testament to the power of collaboration,” Mayor Stroebel stated.

He also highlighted the critical role of farmers, landowners, and residents in fire prevention and early detection. “Together, we must remain vigilant and proactive, especially with the increased temperatures predicted this season,” he added.

Strengthened Resources and Capacity

To enhance its firefighting capabilities, GRDM has appointed 20 temporarily  seasonal firefighters to support its three fire stations across the district. The newly established regional fire station, strategically located along the N2, operates 24/7 with international standard facilities, ensuring rapid and effective responses to emergencies.

Aerial firefighting services, provided by Kishugu-WoF and Savannah Helicopters, will play a pivotal role in containing fires swiftly, supported by the Western Cape Government and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE).

Additionally, GRDM’s Disaster Management Centre remains fully operational, managing over 25,000 emergency calls per month through its Joint Operational Command and advanced communication systems.

Featured Image Caption: GRDM Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel and Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, alongside GRDM firefighters proudly dressed in blue.

A Call for Vigilance

As the festive season approaches, GRDM urges residents, visitors, and all emergency authorities to prioritize safety and remain vigilant. “Protecting our communities, environment, and economy from wildfires requires collective responsibility,” Mayor Stroebel emphasized.

In closure Mayor Stroebel expressed gratitude to the residents of the Garden Route,  for their ongoing vigilance and cooperation. “Your role in safeguarding our district is invaluable, and together with our stakeholders, we are here to support you every step of the way,” he said.

To visitors, the Mayor extended a warm welcome: “The Garden Route is a place of unparalleled beauty and vibrant communities. We are committed to ensuring your safety as you enjoy our region.”

GRDM calls on everyone to celebrate responsibly, cherish the environment, and stay alert to potential hazards during the festive season. “Together, we can protect this treasure we call home, ensuring it remains safe and thriving for generations to come,” the Mayor Stroebel concluded.

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