Preparing yourself for severe fire danger

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) is reminding residents across the south west and surrounding areas to be vigilant with heightened grass fire danger predicted for the coming days and into the weekend.
QFRS South Western Region Manager for Rural Operations Wayne Waltisbuhl said precautions were being taken by firefighters to prepare for potential vegetation fires and preparations were being made to send additional resources into the areas of concern.
“There is a severe grass fire danger in the Warrego and Maranoa districts. The townships of Cunnamulla, Charleville, Roma and surrounds will experience high temperatures, strong winds and dry conditions,” Mr Waltisbuhl said.
“Very low humidity in these areas, along with unpredictable winds means any ignition will result in a fire which could be very difficult to contain.
“As a result, the region will be on heightened alert today and in the coming days.”
Mr Waltisbuhl said recent dry storm activity had seen many lightening strikes cause widespread fire activity.
“Landholders need to be vigilant when dry storm systems cross, with the absence of rain, lightening easily sparks dry ground, so if you notice a fire on your property, call Triple Zero (000) immediately,” he said.
Mr Waltisbuhl said with fire activity ramping up around the State, it was crucial for residents to make sure they were doing all they could to prepare their homes and properties.
“If they haven’t done so already, I urge residents to ensure their properties are prepared and visit the Rural Fire Service website to download a bushfire survival plan to ensure no one is caught off guard,” he said.
“Landowners who have recently conducted hazard reduction burns are strongly encouraged to take immediate steps to ensure their fire has been properly extinguished or make sure any the residual fires are contained to prevent the fire from escaping.
“We are also asking people to ensure they are not throwing cigarette butts out of car windows and to be careful when operating machinery in dry grassed areas.”
More information on how to prepare for bushfire season can be found at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au