Volunteer Wildfire Services

With approximately 300 members at our various stations (Newlands, South Peninsula (Noordhoek, Stellenbosch/Helderberg), the VWS has assisted the Table Mountain National Park, Cape Nature and Overbery District Municipality with some of the wildest fires the Western Cape has ever experienced. Baptised by fire through the devastating fires in Cape Town during the year 2000, the VWS is now a highly organised Section 21 Company that continues to grow in reputation and stature. We work closely with other emergency service organisations in wild-land fire management such as Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town Fire & Emergency Services, CapeNature, Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management, Overberg District Municipality, Winelands Fire Brigade, City of Cape Town Biodiversity and various contract crews. WHAT WE DO
The VWS has three primary functions:
1: Wildfire suppression services
2: Wildfire suppression and management training
3: Prescribed burning (with partner organisations)

We also do various smaller activities such as awareness, schools visits and fundraising events - a vital part of staying operational. HOW WE OPERATE
On standby to respond to fires and emergencies 24 hours a day for 365 days of the year – that’s how we work. They are extraordinary people who give of their time and energy to protect lives, property and our natural heritage. Most have day jobs, some are students, others run their own companies – but all are dedicated, motivated and highly-trained to ensure that our ultimate goal of wildfire suppression is taken care of. FUNDING
The VWS receives funding from corporate and organisational partners and individual donors, as well as initiating our own fundraising projects. This funding allows us to operate and manage ourselves independently. We are always on the lookout for additional funding that will allow us to further serve the community.