In preparation for the imminent wildfire season, the Western Cape is deploying a formidable arsenal, comprising four planes, eight helicopters, and a contingent of 2,300 firefighters, at a cost of R16 million, in preparation for the wildfire season, typically lasting from November to May.

Last year witnessed a staggering 7,215 wildfires in the province, Anton Bredell, MEC for Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, affirmed their commitment to dealing with the escalating costs of dealing with the seasonal phenomenon.

Even one serious wildfire, such as the one in Kleinmond last January, can incur government expenditure of at least R2 million, as over 5,400 hectares of land, including forest and fynbos farms, were touched by the flames.

For the upcoming season, the provincial government has committed R16 million to its wildfire response, in addition to the municipal contributions (predominantly in the City).

Wouter Kriel, spokesperson for Local Government emphasized the strategic focus on both aerial and ground support, with four helicopters and the option for an additional four, along with four bomber planes and eight spotter aircraft.

Aerial support played a pivotal role in containing nearly 40 fires last year, demonstrating its effectiveness in conjunction with ground efforts. Kriel explained that the Western Cape Rapid Response Strategy, emphasizing the swift deployment of costly aerial resources, resulted in an impressive 85% containment rate within the first hour for fires in high-risk areas.

The province has assembled a force of 2,300 firefighters, comprising both professionals and contract personnel, ready to respond to emergencies. Kriel underscored the importance of the Mutual Aid Agreement, facilitating coordinated assistance from various firefighting entities.

Despite a wet winter, which has contributed to vigorous vegetation growth (or rather, because of it), Kriel warned that the risk of wildfires remains high, particularly if accompanied by high temperatures and extended dry periods. He noted that severe winter flooding damaged roads, potentially complicating access to certain areas.

Kriel attributed the majority of wildfires to human activities, citing negligence as the primary cause. Natural events, such as lightning or falling rocks (which throw off sparks), accounted for less than 3% of ignitions, while intentional fires, including arson and recreational fire setting, comprised approximately 25%. Negligent fires, arising from unattended open fires, fireworks, carelessness, or prescribed fires getting out of control, constituted the remainder.

"The takeaway here is that humans are by far the greatest cause for fires in our modern context, and our behavior can make a huge difference," Kriel emphasized, urging responsible conduct to mitigate the risk of wildfires in the Western Cape.

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