introduction

The inherent fire hazard is exacerbated by:

• An increasing extent of the urban development interface with naturally fire-prone systems
• The escalating occurrence of extensive infestations of invasive alien plants
• Fire risks associated with forestry and agriculture
• The build up of excessive fuel loads (natural, commercial and invasive)

Integrated fire management is a series of actions that include:

• FIRE AWARENESS activities,
• FIRE PREVENTION activities,
• PRESCRIBED BURNING,
• RESOURCE SHARING AND CO-ORDINATION,
• FIRE DETECTION,
• FIRE SUPPRESSION and,
• FIRE DAMAGE REHABILITATION.

at local, provincial and national levels in order to create a sustainable and well balanced environment, reduce unwanted wildfire damage and promote the beneficial use of fire.