July 28, 2015
Firefighters are reminding South Burnett residents that one spark from power tools, farm machinery or a cigarette butt could be enough to start a bushfire following the recent cold snap.
Rural Fire Service Queensland spokesman Lawrence Laing said a small fire had the potential to spread quickly in areas where frost had killed and dried vegetation.
“We’ve seen snow in parts of southern Queensland for the first time in years, which along with the usual winter frosts has left areas of grassland and vegetation dry and ready to burn,” Mr Laing said.
“People should take extreme care when using power tools and machinery that may spark near dry vegetation and ignite a fire, and ensure they have appropriate resources to put out a fire if one starts.
“Remember, you could be liable for any damage a fire may cause.”
Mr Laing recommended having someone other than the tool or machine operator available, to watch closely for ignitions which may occur and have equipment on hand to extinguish any sparks immediately.
“Slashing and mowing grass in dry conditions has been a contributing factor to many grass fires in past years, however having access to the correct extinguishing tools could aid in preventing small fires turning into large fires,” he said.
“Residents planning to conduct a hazard reduction burn on their property should ensure they contact their local fire warden and obtain a permit to light.”
Mr Laing also reminded motorists of the dangers of flicking cigarette butts outside car windows.
“Cigarette butts can cause dangerous roadside fires,” he said.
“Every roadside fire has the potential to cause a life-threatening situation not only for fellow motorists, but emergency crews who are called to attend to a situation which could have been avoided.”
