GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Following an increase in wildfires in the Urquhart Caravan Park and surrounding areas, the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality will embark on an awareness campaign to warn residents and children about the dangers of fires and how to prevent them.
The last fire raged next to the caravan park on the evening of 28 January.
Edwardine Abader, acting municipal spokesperson, explained that during the December and January period several veld fires occurred at the Sunday's River near the caravan park.
"This is very concerning to the municipality as in all cases [of fires], children were seen swimming in accumulated water pools near these sites," Abader said.
The Community Services Directorate within the municipality will embark on awareness campaigns targeting schools, but will also reach out to the broader community. According to Abader, these visits should start in February. Residents will be informed of awareness campaigns once the dates are finalised.
"We are still in a drought and thousands of litres of precious water are being used to douse these fires," said Abader, urging the community to be vigilant and report any fires immediately.
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