Fires keep crews busy

Veld fires west of Grahamstown that started around 3.45pm last Thursday, 23 June finally abated four days later.

And three fires burning simultaneously on the north-eastern commonage behind Makana Brick late on Sunday were controlled that night.

Fire fighters had to be diverted from the bigger fire west of Grahamstown, which jumped the N2 around 1pm on Sunday, 26 June and burnt along the west side of Rivendell which had been badly burnt two weeks before.

There was concern on Monday afternoon when the fire was within an hour-and-a-half of Thomas Baines reserve.

Makana Municipality Fire Chief William Welkom said at noon it had been controlled. Fire fighters monitored the area day and night.

“It swept across the bottom end of Rivendell and was far from the houses. But there are trees in the area and we were taking no chances, so we contained the fire at some distance from them.

“The relief crew that went out on (Tuesday) morning returned saying the fire was under control.”

People living in the area welcomed the light drizzle on Monday night.

The western fire started on the west side of the N2 and went in the direction of Stone Crescent and the Highlands road. On Saturday it was burning on top of the mountain above Aucklands.

Makana Fire and Rescue Services monitored both the Highlands road and the N2 sides of the fire – particularly keeping an eye on homes on both sides.

As strong winds blew, the army fire unit was called in to assist. They, as well as teams from Sarah Baartman District Municipality worked throughout the night.

“No property or lives were endangered,” Welkom said.