Overberg Fire Update

Disaster Management Entities in the Western Cape remain under pressure and have been combating multiple wildfires across the province over the past weekend.

At present the major cause for concern remains the Houw Hoek wildfire that started on Saturday Afternoon close to Botriver. The fire has already threatened various farms in the area and some losses of structures and vehicles have been reported.

Anton Bredell, the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says due to the threat posed by the fire, people had to be evacuated from some farms.

“This included a wedding reception on MacDaddy Farm. Fortunately the formal ceremony had been concluded.”

Bredell has lauded the efforts of fire-fighters from various entities including the local community who have been very supportive of the efforts of the fire fighters and the command structure. 

Colin Deiner, head of Disaster Management in the Western Cape says the entities involved in combating the destructive fire includes Overstrand District Municipality Fire & Rescue, Cape Nature, Working on Fire, MTO Forestry and several landowner resources.  Aerial resources were also dispatched, greatly assisting fire fighting efforts.  High temperatures, strong winds and a high fuel load caused the fire to spread rapidly. 

“A special thanks to Winelands FPA Franschhoek FMU, Houw Hoek farmstall and restaurant, Houw Hoek Inn, Wildekrans Country House and the private individuals who have provided the teams with provisions while battling the fire.  Each contribution made is highly appreciated,” says Deiner.

The fire has spread towards the Kogelberg Nature Reserve where aerial resources, including two SANDF helicopters and ground teams are still battling to contain it.  Working on Fire, the National Department of Environmental Affairs’ Expanded Public Works programme has been instrumental in fighting the fire. 

Currently aerial resources together with ground crews remain on the fire line.  These include 30 fire fighters from Vroulijkheid and Hottentots Holland, with an extra 20 fire fighters from Ladismith en route.

“The total area burnt to date is approximately 3000ha.  The fire is still threatening farms, infrastructure, vineyards, orchards and natural fauna and flora.  The dedication and sacrifice of the teams and landowners fighting the fire is commended and they cannot be thanked enough,” says Bredell.

In addition to the Houw Hoek fire are wildfires currently raging in Eendekuil and Porterville. These fires are mainly concentrated in the mountainous areas, posing no immediate threat to life and property.

When reporting fires, please contact your Local District Municipality

• City of Cape Town - 107 or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone
• Overberg - 028 425 1690
• West Coast - 022 433 8700
• Eden - 044 805 5071
• Central Karoo - 023 414 2603
• Cape Winelands - 021 887 4446

General Safety tips

• Keep a well-maintained fire extinguisher in your house, and know how to use it.
• If you have no extinguisher, keep an empty bucket for water or a bucket of sand if possible, on hand.
• If you have a garden hose, keep it rolled up and ready in case of fire.
• 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).