General -

????Newsletter

by NEFSFPA Website Administrator

Audio Newsletter Overview:

NEFSFPA IMPORTANT NEWSLETTER

Date: 2025-05-28

Subject: Critical Updates for the Fire Season: Membership, Firebreaks, WoF Teams & Preparedness

Dear NEFSFPA Members,

As we head further into the fire season, this newsletter provides crucial updates regarding membership fees, current fire season protocols, Working on Fire (WoF) team availability and transport, our revamped website and training resources, and a summary of essential preparations for all landowners.

1. Membership Fees – Action Required

  • All membership invoices for the current season have been dispatched.
  • If you have not yet received your invoice, please contact Bernard (FPO) or Ellen (Chief Financial Officer) immediately via phone call or WhatsApp to request your copy.
  • Please note that all membership fees are now due for payment. Prompt payment ensures the continued operational capacity of the FPA and your compliance.
  • New Landowners: We welcome new members. You can register for NEFSFPA membership online at: https://clone-nefsfpa.inksnapp.co.za/landowner-area/register/

2. Current Season & Essential Firebreak Information

The official firebreak season commenced on 1 May 2025.

  • Fire Danger Index (FDI): The FDI is now being sent out daily at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on the FPA WhatsApp Announcement Group.
    • URGENT WEATHER ALERT: We are currently anticipating the arrival of two cold fronts into South Africa. These systems will bring very strong winds, significantly increasing fire risk. Please exercise extreme caution.
  • Key Preparedness Actions (Refer to https://clone-nefsfpa.inksnapp.co.za/fire-management-strategy/):
    • Ensure your FPA Membership fees are paid.
    • Monitor the daily FDI updates closely.
    • Commence with the making of all necessary firebreaks immediately.
    • Prioritize vulnerable areas first – begin with protecting workers’ residences, securing main residences, hay bales, and other valuable assets.
    • Adhere strictly to the Rules of the Fire Protection Association.
    • Prepare firebreaks around pastures intended for burning in the POST-season.
    • Activate Fire Awareness Campaigns within your teams and community. Scout and maintain vigilance for any signs of fire.
    • Ensure all personnel involved in fire management activities are equipped with Personal Protective Clothing (PPC).
    • Ensure all your members and relevant personnel are fully informed about the WoF Call-out Procedure.
    • Attend your local Sector Meetings for coordinated efforts and information sharing.

3. Working on Fire (WoF) Teams Availability

NEFSFPA, in partnership with Working on Fire, has five WoF teams available.

  • Please note that the Warden and Harrismith WoF teams are anticipated to be significantly busier than the Vrede, Memel, and Qwa-Qwa WoF teams.
  • We urge all landowners who have previously utilized these teams to make use of their services again this year.
  • Important Transport Notice: If a landowner wishes to utilize the Vrede, Memel, or Qwa-Qwa WoF teams, they must supply transport for the teams due to a lack of available dedicated vehicles for these specific bases.

4. Update on Transportation for Working on Fire Teams

The challenges with WoF team transport stem from the following:

  • The contract between Working on Fire and DFFE regarding vehicles concluded in 2023/2024, leading to the withdrawal of the Yellow Truck Fleet from all bases to Bloemfontein.
  • Working on Fire has begun replacing these with a new White Fleet; however, the number of new vehicles is significantly lower than the previous Yellow Fleet.
  • Currently, there is only one White Fleet vehicle available, and it is centrally located in Warden.
  • There are discussions for 2024/2025 regarding the DFFE potentially handing over the Yellow Fleet to District Municipalities, with a proposed base in Bethlehem. Negotiations concerning the placement and allocation of this Yellow Fleet are ongoing.
  • NEFSFPA may receive fewer Yellow Fleet vehicles than in the past due to the presence of three large FSUFPA Affiliate FPAs within the Thabo Mafutsanyana District Municipality, the largest in the Free State.
  • NEFSFPA is actively communicating with Local Government to secure additional vehicle assistance for the transport of WoF teams. We will keep you updated on progress.

5. FPA Website and Free Online Training Platform

  • Visit our official website for resources and information: https://clone-nefsfpa.inksnapp.co.za
  • NEFSFPA has revamped its Self Online Training platform. We strongly encourage all landowners and land users to utilize this valuable resource. https://clone-nefsfpa.inksnapp.co.za/training/online-self-training/
  • The “Wildfire Management for Landowners and Landusers Training” now includes a quiz. This quiz will test your understanding of the “Basic Wildfire Risk Management for Land Users in Free State Grasslands” handbook. Key topics covered include:
    • Legal obligations under the National Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act 101)
    • Risk assessment methodologies
    • Creating effective fire management plans
    • The roles and responsibilities of Fire Protection Associations (FPAs) and Fire Protection Officers (FPOs)
    • Understanding and applying Fire Danger Indexes (FDI)
    • Firebreak requirements and specifications
    • Firefighting equipment and strategies
    • Crucial safety protocols on the fireline

6. Summary: Your Preparedness is Key

The upcoming period, especially with the predicted strong winds, demands heightened vigilance and proactive preparation from every landowner in our region. To reiterate the critical actions:

  • Ensure your membership fees are paid to maintain FPA support and compliance.
  • Urgently create and maintain compliant firebreaks, prioritizing vulnerable areas.
  • Stay informed via the daily FDI and heed all warnings.
  • Understand the current WoF team availability and transport requirements, especially if you need teams from Vrede, Memel, or Qwa-Qwa. Plan accordingly if you require their assistance with firebreaks.
  • Utilize the NEFSFPA website and the free online training platform to enhance your knowledge and preparedness.
  • Communicate proactively with the FPA regarding any concerns or requirements.

The North Eastern Free State is prone to destructive veldfires. Your individual and collective preparation is paramount to mitigating risks, protecting lives, property, and livelihoods. Let us work together to ensure a safer fire season.

Stay Safe and Vigilant,

Bernard Fire Protection Officer NEFSFPA

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