There have been numerous reports of veld fires across South Africa – with many of these in the Eastern Free State. These fires are not only a threat to the fauna and flora – but also to road users travelling near these fires!
6 people were injured 2 seriously so in an accident on the R26 about 20 kilometres out of Bethlehem this afternoon at around 15h50. It is believed that the vehicles collided in thick smoke from a grass fire.
When paramedics arrived at the accident they found that two people sustained serious injuries while 4 others escaped with minor injuries. Medics stabilised the injured on scene before transporting them to various hospitals in Bethlehem for the care that they required.
We would like to urge road users to be very cautious when driving near thick smoke! Be alert in these dry weather conditions – and don’t throw that burning cigarette from your car! You could unknowingly be the cause of injury or death of another road user!
Also view :
Safe Driving near Veldt and Forest fires
[Photo with recognition to Suze Steyl Photography]
