PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The Crags Fire Management Unit has released an update on the extensive fires in the Keurbooms north area that has affected about 8 400ha of mountain vegetation.

It said with the fire spreading west- and northwards, the threat to the Crags has been greatly diminished thanks to tireless work and co-operation between MTO and SANParks, as well as local and regional fire authorities.

There has been no loss to any forestry or other private land in the last 14 days. The fire will continue to be monitored by all concerned.

Describing Sunday as “another interesting day for many fire crews, the Bitou Fire Association (BFA) released an image on Facebook of the active fires in the Keurbooms north area over the seven days up to Monday morning, 5 January.

The BFA said that mainly the eastern section remained active and there was no life or structural threat. Helicopters spent many hours in ongoing monitoring and intervention would be made as needed.

Other fires were reported along the Wittedrift road where Bitou Fire Department, supported by the organisation Harkerville Rural Protection, worked to get the burn under control.

In Kwanokuthula East, Bitou Fire Department called on the Plett South Fire Management Unit to attend to a wildfire was reported by a person on a farm adjoining the fire.

“Rapid response brought this one down as well,” said the BFA.

The Facebook post said due to injury on duty incidents, the Bitou Fire Department continued to work with staff shortages.

“Volunteers jump in where needed... that's how we roll in Plett,” said the BFA.

It urged the public to report fires in their immediate surroundings on 044 533 500 or 044 501 3230/1, as well as contacting their local fire management unit.

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