News item

Far North Region: severe fire danger to continue across the weekend

4/01/2013 11:54:39 AM

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is urging far north Queensland residents to remain vigilant with a heightened fire danger expected in the Tablelands area across the weekend.

QFRS Assistant Commissioner for Far North Region Wayne Weston said firefighters were monitoring conditions closely, but reminded residents prevention was the key.

“Severe and high fire danger remains in pockets across the Tablelands, including Mareeba and Ravenshoe, and west through to Croyden,” Mr Weston said.

“While the QFRS is well prepared to assist landowners to fight potential fires, prevention is important.

“The combination of strong winds, high temperatures and low relative humidity will make it very difficult to contain vegetation fires, so we’re asking residents to take extra care and be alert.”

Mr Weston said it was important to not be complacent, especially regarding fire permits.

“Before lighting a fire, it’s mandatory to obtain a permit through your Fire Warden and permit conditions must be adhered to in full,” he said.

“In addition, landowners who have conducted hazard reduction burns recently are strongly encouraged to take immediate steps to ensure their fire has been properly extinguished or to make sure the residual fire is contained so that it will not escape with the forecast winds in the coming days.”

Mr Weston said now was an ideal time to prepare your home and land.

“We recommend that you mow grass around houses and buildings, remove rubbish piles and clear any excess trees and shrubs away from houses, especially the window areas,” he said.

“It is also essential for everyone to have a Bushfire Survival Plan to detail exactly how they will prepare and what action they will take if threatened by a bushfire.”

More information about how to prepare for bushfire season can be found at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au


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