THE Tasmania Fire Service is urging Tasmanians to check their properties this weekend, ahead of forecast high temperature and strengthening winds. “We’re expecting high temperatures paired with strengthening winds on Saturday which will increase the likelihood of fires becoming uncontrollable,” TFS deputy chief officer Bruce Byatt said.
“There is also the likelihood of lightning in some areas of the state which may start fires. TFS has initiated a hot day response over the weekend. This will double the brigade response to any fires that occur and in addition to this we have placed a hold on issuing any fire permits for the foreseeable future. We will also have aircraft and incident management teams on standby to deal with any new fires that start,” Mr Byatt said.
“While TFS has these measures in place, we also ask community members to take responsibility for keeping themselves and their neighbours safe. This responsibility extends to ensuring that any fires that have been lit in recent days and weeks are extinguished prior to the weekend to ensure they don’t flare up and escape.”
“Several recent fires have been ignited by machinery used to slash roadside vergers and paddocks. Operating such equipment in dry fuels and in hot conditions can cause fires that could spread rapidly. Specific information about operating machinery in or near dry vegetation is available on the TFS website.”
“Anyone who sees a fire burning should report it to triple-zero (000). There is also further weather conducive to fire expected into next week.”
For all TFS bushfire warnings and alerts visit TasALERT.com
