Fire service calls for vigilance

DESPITE recent storms bringing hail and strong winds to south-west Queensland communities, Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) is urging all residents to remain vigilant and reduce bushfire risk over coming months.
RFSQ South Western Regional manager Lawrence Laing said recent rain would not reduce fire danger in the area, with heightened fire conditions forecast for Maranoa, Warrego and Darling Downs areas.
“We’ve had a number of storms over the past weeks, but we are still seeing very high fire danger forecast in areas south-west of Queensland,” he said.
“On hot, dry days a single spark could create a fast moving bushfire and be difficult to contain.
“It’s up to everyone in the community to stay vigilant and do what we can to minimise risk this bushfire season.”
Mr Laing said landowners wishing to conduct hazard reduction burns should contact their local fire warden beforehand and those who had conducted burns recently should ensure their fire had been properly extinguished.
“Landowners who have conducted burns must make sure residual fires are contained so that they will not escape,” he said.
Mr Laing said with fire activity continuing across the state, it was crucial for residents to prepare their homes and properties.
“If they haven’t already, I urge residents to finalise their preparations and visit the RFSQ website to download a Bushfire Survival Plan, so that no-one is caught off guard,” he said.
Further information on bushfire preparation can be found at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au.
For the Daily Fire Danger Rating visit ruralfire.qld.gov.au/FDR.asp