Burnett residents are urged to ask themselves some tough questions ahead of bushfire season.
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said it’s all about planning ahead.
“This means we need to be asking ourselves what we have to lose, what we would do if a bushfire is approaching and what we can do now to be prepared,” he said.
“Will you be leaving early? Will you be staying to defend? Are you ready?
“They’re tough questions that we don’t want to think about, but it’s vital wedo.”
While bushfires can occur at any time of the year, generally they tend to be more frequent and can be more severe from late winter to early summer.
Hazard reduction is a key component of bushfire prevention, but Burnett MP Stephen Bennett said it’s important landholders conduct cool burns and light fires with precaution.
“This week the South Kolan Rural Fire Brigade were called out to a non-permitted burn that got away,” he said.
“It burned through four properties before it was under control.
“It’s a timely reminder just how unpredictable and uncontrollable fires can be.”
General Manager of the Rural Fire Brigades Association Justin Choveaux said the time to prepare is now.
“The last two years of good rains has produced lots of material for fire to burn and the warm winter means that fires have started occurring earlier this year,” said Mr Choveaux.
“The 30,000 Rural Fire Brigade volunteers are there to help you manage your fire risk and can work with you in conducting hazard reduction burning on your land.
“When preparing to light a fire, there are a few key things to remember.
“Any fire which measures more than two meters in any direction requires a Fire Permit, which can be obtained at no cost from your local Fire Warden. *
“Using fire as a tool to lower fuel loads has some risk.
“To access more information regarding your rights and responsibilities as a landholder explained in easy to read and understand terms, visit the QFES website www.qfes.qld.gov.au/safety-education/using-fire-outdoors/lighting-fires-in-queensland.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said he’s continuing to push for a more consolidated approach towards the reporting of fires, both planned and wildfire.
“I’m looking forward to working with the Minister for Fire and Emergency Services to develop a system where all fires (controlled burns and bushfires) are reported and updated with relevant and timely information,” he said.
“Being informed is our best defense.”
* Interactive Fire Warden Finder link: https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/safety-education/using-fire-outdoors/fire-wardens
ENDS.
13-07-2023