January 30, 2019
Fire permits in the South and North Burnett council areas have been cancelled from 8:00am on Thursday (January 31) until further notice.
The action has been taken due to the dry, hot and windy conditions in the region.
Local firefighters have urged residents to remain vigilant.
Rural Fire Service Assistant Commissioner Gary McCormack blamed the lack of rain and warm temperatures for the recent spate of fires in southern Queensland.
He urged people to be remain aware when using power tools or machinery.
“One spark from welding, grinding, mowing or slashing is all it takes to start a fire,” he said.
“Residents should also prepare their properties by clearing their gutters, trimming low-lying branches and mowing their lawn regularly.
“Whether you live in a rural area or urban fringe, it’s essential you take steps to protect yourself and prevent bushfires from starting.”
Residents have also been warned not to park in long grass, as a hot exhaust will ignite dry grass.
Mr McCormack said residents should keep-up-to-date with any fire warnings issued.
“It’s extremely important for residents to be informed what is happening around them, and to report fires to Triple Zero (000) immediately,” he said.
There have been several fires in the South Burnett area in recent days, including at Kawl Kawl, Ban Ban Springs, South Nanango and Harlin.
As well, firefighters are continuing to monitor the site of a large grassfire which broke out near T H Burns Road at Ballogie on Saturday and burned for several days.
- Information about fire warnings, permits and bushfire preparedness can be found on the Rural Fire Service website or their Facebook page
