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Buffalo City Municipality is warning residents to be on high alert following an increase in fires.
Municipality spokesperson, Samnkelo Ngwenya, says their statistics reveal that since the start of June there were 1496 fires recorded across BCM.
"The serious concern is the fact that out of these, 711 fires are caused by vegetation and grass. The other area of serious concern is that 432 were informal dwellings and 160 for residential dwellings," he said.
Ngwenya said during last winter, Buffalo City recorded an average of 660 fires each month between July and August.
"If the blazes experienced thus far are anything to go by, then residents can brace for a challenging winter dominated by fires," he cautioned.
"Winters are generally windy with dry vegetation and these are thriving conditions for easily spreading fires. Furthermore, the cold weather and load shedding is compelling a lot of households to use paraffin and candles, which have devastating effects, if not handled with caution," Ngwenya said.
The City is advising residents to contact the fire department on 043 7059000 / 043 7059890 immediately when they spot a fire, as early reactions can prevent a lot of damage and save lives.
