The period from 1 December to 30 April in the Western Cape is known as the fire season. This is traditionally a time when the days get hotter, strong winds prevail and the region's fynbos dries out. Add to this a population that loves the outdoors as well as a good braai, and you have a situation where the possibility of a veldfire increases by 100%.

Apart from veldfires, there is also a danger of shack fires. When most communities have to rely on an open fire to cook a meal or boil water, the chance of a fire in the home increases. Houses that are built in close proximity to each other, only separated by narrow roads, make it difficult for firefighters to reach fires in time.

To prevent the loss of lives and property, everybody needs to be aware of the danger of fire during the fire season.

General Safety Rules:

• Keep a well-maintained fire extinguisher in your house, and know how to use it.
• If you have a garden hose, keep it rolled up and ready in case of a fire.
• Where possible, have more than one exit from your house.
• Have an escape plan, and make sure that the whole family knows the plan.
• Do not park in the way of a fire hydrant (and remind your neighbours and visitors to do the same).

According to the Fire and Rescue Service of the City of Cape Town, fires are most often caused by electrical faults, open flames, hot surfaces, chemical reactions, friction, lightning or static electricity. For more tips on how to prevent fires, you can visit their webpage.

Firewise SA aims to create awareness about the dangers of veldfires and to equip the public with the knowledge and skills of fire prevention. For more information on preventing fires and what to do in the case of a veldfire, please visit Firewise.

How Can I Prepare Myself for a Fire Emergency?If you live in the Cape Town area that falls within the 021 dialling code:

• Write down "Emergencies: Call 107" on or near your telephone at home and at work.
• Save the number 021 480 7700 on your cellphone under the name "All Emergencies" and teach your children how to dial the number.
• Explain that the number is strictly for emergencies only (Prank calls clog up the call centre and can cost lives).
• Tell your family and friends about the 107 emergency number.

If you live in any of the other municipalities in the Western Cape, please contact your local municipality for the correct number to dial in case of a fire emergency and write it down near your telephone at home and work. Save the number on your cellphone under "Emergency: Fire". You can do the same for other emergency numbers.

You can find general contact information of your local municipality on the following webpage.

Here are some useful information from the Disaster Risk Management at the City of Cape Town:

• Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Safety
• Family Disaster Preparedness Guidelines
• Protect Yourself from Fire
• Urban Fringe Fires

According to Working on Fire, 90% of fires are caused by human negligence. By being prepared and taking the correct precautions, each person can make this season a safe one.

The Working on Fire programme (WoF), funded by the South African Government, is one of South Africa's most successful poverty alleviation, job creation and community upliftment initiatives. Please visit their website for more information.

Cape Town fire chief Ian Schnetler wants Capetonians to report motorists who toss cigarette butts out of their car windows.

The stompie hotline control centre number is 021 424 7715.