In an effort to reduce the risks of being trapped in a forest fire, several steps are being taken to inform cyclists about this very real possibility. As custodians of these trails the onus is on the clubs to ensure that cyclists are warned timeously and appropriately about trail closures. A Trail Closure Plan has been put in place to ensure that this is done. The plan begins with a message from Sappi to the clubs/ trail custodians that there is a potentially dangerous period of weather (dry, hot and windy) and that the trails should be closed to trail users for a given period.   The clubs have in place an emergency communication network, to which they then send this message. Another step that is being implemented is the erection of Fire Danger Index and Emergency Exit Point signage at strategic points on the trail networks. This signage has kindly been sponsored by the Lions River Fire Protection Association, which is an important organisation that operates within the area to ensure compliance with the National Veld and Forest Fire Act and supports its members by providing guidelines/rules and ad-hoc fire services in respect of prevention, control and management of fires.  The Association also plays a key role in coordinating integrated fire management efforts among its members, one of which is Sappi.

All trail users are requested to please be mindful of the danger of forest fires and to pay attention to the communications and signage that has been put in place. Take the time to understand the Fire Danger Index, and if you ever reach the trails on a dry, hot and windy day between the months of May to October, please call the Lions River Fire Protection Association on 033 330 6369 or 073 704 5862. If they inform you that it is a High Fire Risk Day, accessing the trails is strictly prohibited. It is also important to ensure that you either have a day indemnity or annual indemnity board on you at all times. These are obtainable through the Howick (082 493 5263) and Karkloof (082 878 7251) Mountain Bike Clubs.