July 17, 2015
South Burnett landowners who plan to conduct hazard reduction burns on their property have been reminded to seek advice from their local Fire Warden, obtain a permit to burn and inform authorities beforehand.
Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) North Coast Regional Manager Peter Hollier said the Permit to Light a Fire system was enforced by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services to ensure burns were conducted at an appropriate time of the year, were suitably managed, and emergency services were notified.
“I encourage landholders to become part of ‘Operation Cool Burn’ and contribute to reducing fire risk across their local area,” Mr Hollier said.
“Permits are required at all times for a fire that is bigger than two metres in any direction. They are free and can be obtained from your local Fire Warden.
“They come with clear guidelines on when you can light the fire and what precautions will need to be taken, including … informing neighbours of planned burns. This also reduces the likelihood of unnecessary calls to emergency services.
Mr Hollier said tough penalties applied for people who lit fires without a permit.
“Most landowners follow the guidelines but forget to inform the RFSQ before they start their hazard reduction burn, which can pose a problem,” he said.
“Remember: if you own the fuel, you own the fire.
“Weather conditions are becoming favourable for hazard reduction activities and we encourage landowners to consider what steps they should be taking to reduce their risk.”
To locate local Fire Wardens, use the Fire Warden Finder tool on the Rural Fire Service website.
