District Municipality. Also present were Acting Municipal Manager Mr Thubelihle Buthelezi and Director of Community Services Mr Thabo Xaba. The Mayor of eMadlangeni Local Municipality, Councillor M.L. Buthelezi, and Amakhosi representing traditional communities also attended in support, affirming the critical collaboration between municipal authorities and traditional leadership in strengthening community-level resilience. The campaign served as an important platform to educate residents and traditional leaders on key fire safety practices. Emphasis was placed on the safe handling of gas stoves, candles, and open flames—hazards that commonly contribute to winter fires in households. The programme also provided insight into how the municipality responds to fire incidents, detailing the reporting process, call coordination, and the rapid deployment of response teams. These municipal rescue services are a vital part of disaster risk management, designed to ensure swift support across urban and rural communities alike. In addition to education, the municipality handed over essential firefighting tools, including blowers, fire beaters, and heavy-duty agricultural sprayers. These were distributed to traditional leaders and households in high-risk areas to enhance early local response while awaiting formal emergency support. This measure not only equips communities but underscores the shared responsibility of fire prevention at grassroots level. Residents were also informed about the municipality’s coordination with Fire Protection Associations, which provide crucial support during high-risk periods when multiple incidents may occur simultaneously. Joining these associations is strongly encouraged, particularly for landowners with farms or properties exceeding one hectare, as membership affords access to additional firefighting capacity and coordinated assistance during emergencies. In the event of fire-related emergencies, residents are encouraged to contact the Emadlangeni Local Municipality Fire Department on the toll-free number 0800 212 2165. For additional assistance, Amajuba District Municipality’s 24-hour Water, Sanitation and Disaster Management Contact Centre can be reached at 034 329 7400.