Veld fires are a familiar sight across South Africa during the dry winter months, leaving vast landscapes scorched and posing a significant risk to motorists. These fires often result in thick plumes of smoke that drift across roads, reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions.
For drivers who encounter these scenarios, knowing how to respond appropriately can make the difference between a safe journey and a dangerous situation. With veld fires remaining a seasonal challenge, understanding the risks and adopting the right precautions is essential for anyone on the road.
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When confronted with smoke from a veld fire while driving, the first instinct might be to slow down drastically or even stop. While caution is vital, sudden and unplanned actions can endanger not only the driver but also other road users. It is important to reduce speed gradually while keeping an eye on the vehicles ahead and behind. Hazard lights should be switched on to alert others of reduced visibility conditions.
Before entering a smoke-covered area, ensure that headlights are turned on, but avoid using bright or high beams, as these can reflect off the smoke and worsen visibility. Keeping windows closed and switching the air-conditioning to recirculation mode will help prevent smoke from entering the vehicle. If visibility drops significantly, it’s crucial to stay focused on the road markings and maintain a safe following distance to avoid collisions.
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Stopping on the road should only be a last resort and, if absolutely necessary, the vehicle must be pulled well off the road to avoid becoming an obstruction. Drivers should wait for conditions to improve before rejoining the road. When visibility is compromised, keeping a steady and cautious pace is key. Swerving abruptly to avoid potholes or debris, which can sometimes accompany fires, should be avoided, as this increases the likelihood of accidents.
Navigating South Africa’s roads during veld fire season requires vigilance and patience. Drivers need to remain aware of weather conditions and be prepared for the sudden appearance of smoke, particularly in areas prone to fires. Planning routes that avoid active fire zones, when possible, is always a good idea. Listening to traffic updates and keeping an eye on alerts from emergency services can provide valuable information on affected routes.
Ultimately, road safety during the winter fire season depends on a combination of preparation and responsible driving behaviour. By staying calm, alert, and informed, drivers can navigate smoke-covered roads safely while contributing to overall safety on South Africa’s roads.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly CHANGECARS
