There is a spotlight on the growing challenges facing firefighters, amid recent fires in the City. At the same time, recent weather patterns also highlighted the extreme challenges Cape Town’s firefighters and emergency responders face every summer. While the City continues to strengthen its fire response capacity, preventing and managing fires is a shared responsibility, and every resident has a vital role to play.
“The pressure is relentless,” says Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
The Growing Challenges Facing Firefighters
Cape Town experiences hot, dry, and windy conditions during the summer months. These environmental factors create the perfect conditions for vegetation and wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly.
Over recent years, the situation has intensified:
Between October 2021 and January 2022, firefighters responded to 5,331 vegetation fires.
By the 2024/25 season, this number had increased to 7,480 vegetation fires – a 40% rise.
This sharp increase means firefighters face more intense workloads, more challenging fire behaviour, and a greater risk to both lives and property.
The Relentless Pressure on Firefighters
In addition to vegetation fires, the Fire and Rescue Service must also respond to:
Structural fires in homes, businesses, and informal settlements
Motor vehicle accidents
Hazmat (hazardous material) incidents
Water rescue operations
Summer’s dry conditions also increase the likelihood and severity of fires in informal settlements, where high-density living makes rapid response even more critical.
“The public can help by staying alert, reporting fires immediately, and taking proactive steps to reduce fire risks,” says Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
Summer Fire Season in Cape Town
To manage the increased demand, the City has invested in a stronger and more strategic firefighting response:
32 Fire Stations, operating 24/7 across the metro
Two Huey helicopters for aerial water-bombing (from 1 December)
A fixed wing spotter aircraft to assist Command & Control during wildfires
96 Wildland Firefighters strategically deployed to high-risk vegetation areas
These additions help frontline firefighters respond faster and free up teams for other emergencies.
How the Public Can Help Prevent Fires This Summer
Every resident plays a role in protecting their community. Here’s how:
1. Reduce Fire Risks
Properly extinguish braai coals and cigarettes.
Never leave open flames unattended.
Clear dry vegetation around your home where possible.
2. Be Alert
If you see smoke, flames, or illegal burning activity, don’t assume someone else has reported it.
3. Report Immediately
City of Cape Town Public Emergency Communication Centre:
Tel: 021 480 7700 (from a cellphone)
Or dial 107 from a landline.
4. Learn Fire Safety Basics
Find practical household and outdoor fire safety tips.
Why Fire Risks Increase in Summer
MMC JP Smith says the City’s firefighters are prepared and dedicated, but they cannot manage the growing fire risks alone. He says, by staying informed, acting responsibly, and reporting incidents early, residents can play a key role in preventing devastating fires and protecting our city.
