Greater Stutterheim Fire Protection Association
Welcome to the online home of the Greater Stutterheim Fire Protection Association (FPA)
In support of the 21 day lockdown to slow the spread of Covid 19 we have added the SA coronavirus link here.
GSFPA Stutterheim Office 043 683 2031 GSFPA Manager Sithembele Jobela, cell 061 548 7339 Fire Protection Officer (FPO) Thinus Botha, cell 082 922 8637 GSFPA Planning & Support Lilitha Tshona, cell 068 510 2824
Since its establishment in 2009, the Greater Stutterheim Fire Protection Association has been actively assisting in the management and suppression of veld and forest fires. Though we do not necessarily do the physical fire fighting for the members, we do provide support services such as coordination of fire fighting, back-up assistance, weather reports and warnings, and where necessary taking command of fires.
As part of our veld fire management strategy we divide the GSFPA area into cells that collectively form Fire Management Units, or “FMU’s.” This structure allows us to identify fire risks, weather behaviour and other vital information with which we can then formulate Integrated Fire Management Plans (IFMP) for each FMU. Inside the structures of Cells and FMU’s we are able to advise on strategic firebreaks, burning regimes, fire break agreements or exemptions, grant burning permits as well as mediate on disputes between neighbours.
In accordance with the National Veld and Forest Fire Act of 1998, the GSFPA management structure is made up of an Executive Committee who is able to enforce the Act and the rules and regulations of the GSFPA through the Fire Protection Officer. Even non-members are required to comply with the Act and the regulations of the FPA in their area.
The GSFPA has built a strong community of members who work together to achieve a common goal. Though it is not without its challenges, we are optimistic about what the future holds.
