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Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) continued its disaster risk awareness campaign with the third leg of its International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) commemorations, held on 8 October 2026 at Bana Bathari Special School in Sebayeng, Polokwane Municipality.
Led by the MMC for Community Services, Cllr. Elizabeth Rahlana, the event focused on strengthening community preparedness and equipping residents with knowledge and practical skills to prevent, respond to and recover from disasters, including those linked to climate change.
Held under the 2026 global theme, “Resilience Starts at Home,” the programme highlighted the importance of reducing disaster risks at household level. The theme emphasised that safer homes, informed families, early warnings and practical emergency plans are essential to protecting lives and reducing the impact of disasters.
The programme featured presentations on disaster management, fire and rescue services, Working on Fire, municipal health and road safety. These sessions provided an opportunity to raise awareness about hazards such as veld fires, floods, severe storms, lightning and other emergencies that can threaten lives, property and livelihoods.
Disaster resilience goes beyond responding when emergencies occur. It involves identifying potential hazards, reducing exposure to risks, preparing for emergencies and ensuring that communities have the knowledge, resources and support needed to recover. Households can contribute by keeping emergency contacts accessible, following weather warnings, preparing evacuation plans and ensuring that children and vulnerable family members know what to do during an emergency.
The hosting of the awareness event at Bana Bathari Special School also highlighted the importance of inclusive disaster preparedness. Emergency plans must consider the needs of people with disabilities, children, older persons and other vulnerable groups to ensure that safety information, evacuation arrangements and emergency assistance are accessible to everyone.
Through its disaster risk awareness initiatives, Capricorn District Municipality continued to encourage schools, households and communities to take an active role in building resilience. The campaign reinforced the importance of cooperation between municipalities, emergency services, government departments, educational institutions and residents in reducing disaster risks.
The message was clear: disaster resilience starts at home, preparedness saves lives, and building safer communities is a shared responsibility.
Residents were reminded to report emergencies through the Municipality’s toll-free disaster line, 0800 666 777.
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