Jail time for those refusing to help fight fires
Lebogang Baingapi | Thursday April 27, 2017 14:21
Senior Forest and Ranch Resources officer for Kanye, Johannes Seema told cattle ranchers during a fire management workshop that the law essentially treats those who refuse to help put out fires, the same as those who actually start fires.
In the past, community members who have helped put out fires in the area have demanded compensation, saying fire officers are able to demand allowances for similar work. However, the Herbage Act Section 11 makes it unlawful to refuse to help put out a fire or render other assistance, without reason.
Seema said there was no ambiguity in the law, adding that there were also provisions for those affected by arson to make claims against the perpetrator.
“Section 15 of the Herbage Act also allows for civil remedy where those whose property has been engulfed by fire can make a claim from the perpetrator through the courts of law,” he added.
Farmers in the region gathered to discuss fire prevention strategies, which are often prevalent after the rain season and before the onset of winter.
Jwaneng Mine’s corporate affairs specialist, Peloyame Nthatsi said the company’s involvement in the workshop was part of efforts to enhance disaster management in the area.
“There can be fire outbreaks anytime and we are intensifying our efforts around our disaster management response, hence the engagement of stakeholders around the Mine,” explained Nthatsi.
Specially elected Member of Parliament, Mephato Reatile urged the community and other stakeholders to join hands and prevent chances of fire outbreaks.
“There is a lot of grass nearly everywhere which poses a risk of fire outbreaks. I urge farmers to join the Government departments in fighting veld fires and further encourage them to build fire breaks in their ranches as a preventative measure. “It is important to emphasise on collaboration, engagement and mobilisation,” he said.
Reatile also called on the community to form fire management committees that will assist in planning and execution of any fire outbreak duty as the need arises.