Make your house safe from wind blown embers and sparks
In the case of a runaway wildfire, houses are not usually set on fire simply from the heat of the fire.
It is the wind blown embers and sparks gaining entry through open windows, air vents and small gaps between roof sheeting and walls or through openings in the eaves ceiling board that are the main danger to your home. It is always a good idea to put fine mesh over any vents and seal off all gaps under the eaves. Remember the risk is just as great after the main fire has passed, as sparks and embers are still thrown around by the wind from secondary fires or smoldering brush.
If you ever have to evacuate in the face of a fire – make sure all windows and doors are closed, but do not lock gates and doors as firemen may need to gain entry. Closing internal doors and windows before you leave can slow the spread of a fire, should it get into your house
Visit the Cape of Fire (COF) website for more useful advice about making your home safe. There is also a section for assessing your personal fire risk.
Regards
Steve (Glencairn Fire Committee.)
View other entries in Blog >>
The FIRE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES MANAGER of TMNP has sent a warning that the risk for fire in Metropolitan Cape Town has moved from Green to ORANGE which means that it is in the VERY DANGEROUS category. We are appealing to all residents and visitors to be extremely careful. Only make fires in designated areasand put them out properly after use, no bush burning on the urban edges and not to discard cigarette ends. If you see smoke on or near the Peninsula Mountains phone the Emergency Control Centre stationed in Fish Hoek on 021 782 0333.