Banding together to prevent fires.
Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania Police is reminding all Tasmanians of their responsibility to prevent fires as Crime Stoppers Tasmania launches a new ‘You light it, you own it’ campaign urging all Tasmanians to take personal responsibility for any fire they light and to adopt safe practices to reduce the risk of bushfires this summer.
Chair of Crime Stoppers Tasmania, David Daniels said “unlawfully lighting fires and disregarding fire permits is a serious crime that can have devastating effects, and we are reminding the community that your fire is your responsibility – You light it, you own it.”
With bushfire risk heightened during the summer months, Tasmania Fire Service is urging everyone to follow fire safety guidelines, respect fire bans, and ensure any fire they light is properly managed – including obtaining permits for fires over one cubic metre, checking for total fire bans, and never leaving fires unattended.
Regional Chief, Southern Region, Simon Pilkington, said, “We’re asking the community to avoid risky activities during high fire danger weather and to take every precaution to prevent fires from starting,” said Mr Pilkington.
“When leaving your fire, make sure it’s completely out. Use water – don’t rely on soil or sand as fires can smoulder underneath for hours. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again to ensure it is fully extinguished.”
The new campaign also highlights the risks of sparks caused by tools like angle grinders or welding equipment, particularly on hot or windy days.
Poorly maintained machinery and power tools can also ignite fires, and Tasmanians are urged to exercise extreme caution.
Chair of Crime Stoppers Tasmania, David Daniels, said, “It’s up to us all to keep our communities safe.”
“Any spark can start a fire. Please speak up if you see people disregarding total fire bans periods or fire permits.”
“We are calling on the public to report unsafe or suspicious fire activity to Crime Stoppers Tasmania or directly to Tasmania Police.”
“When you contact Crime Stoppers, you can stay anonymous and not get involved if you choose,” he said.
Remember, if you see smoke or flames, don’t hesitate – call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Failure to follow fire restrictions or manage fires responsibly can result in significant fines or even imprisonment and the consequences of a single moment of carelessness can last a lifetime.
“We’re counting on every Tasmanian to do their part,” Regional Chief, Simon Pilkington added.
“Whether it’s obeying fire bans, taking care with tools, or speaking up when you see others doing the wrong thing, your actions could save lives.”
Pictured: the Hon Felix Ellis MP, Simon Behrakis MP, Crime Stoppers Tasmania Chair David Daniels OAM, Tasmania Fire Service Regional Chief Southern Region Simon Pilkington, Tasmania Police Inspector Danny Jackson
For more information about fire permits, seasonal restrictions, and fire safety, visit www.fire.tas.gov.au or contact Tasmania Fire Service directly.
For more information or to report a crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers Tasmania visit www.crimestopperstas.com.au or call 1800 333 000.