THE Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and Mount Isa City Council have teamed up in asking the city’s residents to dob in bush fire arsonists.
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Mount Isa mayor Tony McGrady said arsonists would not be tolerated, with recent fires coming too close to people’s homes for comfort.
“At this time of year when the city is like a tinderbox, it is especially important to be vigilant not only when conducting a burn, but also by keeping an eye out to safeguard our city,” he said.
“Sunday night was a perfect example, and a huge concern.
“At about 10pm the riverbed near council’s offices was entirely ablaze.”
Cr McGrady said anyone who witnessed an arsonist was asked to dob them in, as it could save someone’s property or life.
RFSQ Area Director for Charters Towers and Cloncurry Gavin Fryar said fire conditions would continue to be assessed in the early stages of fire season.
“The RFSQ only imposes a fire ban if conditions are extremely dangerous,” he said.
“Under a total fire ban, all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire, which have been issued in the designated areas, and hazard reduction burns, are cancelled.”
Mr Fryar said Mount Isa residents had an important role to play in keeping their community safe from deliberately lit bushfires.
“Bushfire arson is not tolerated in Queensland and is taken very seriously by police and fire services. Severe penalties apply for people proven to have deliberately lit fires.”
Mr Fryar said people wanting to light a fire which is bigger than two metres in any direction should seek advice from their local fire warden as a permit may be required.
“Permits are enforced to ensure burns are conducted at an appropriate time of the year, are suitably managed and planned and emergency services are notified,” he said.