Prepare for bushfire season now: RFSQ
LANDOWNERS on the Southern Downs are being urged to prioritise reducing their bushfire risk ahead of the approaching fire season.
Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) South Eastern Regional Manager Tony Johnstone encouraged landholders to become part of Operation Cool Burn and contribute to reducing fire risk across the region.
Operation Cool Burn will see Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) work with a number of departments and organisations to undertake mitigation activities across the state to reduce fire risk in bushfire-prone areas, ahead of the season.
"Remember: if you own the fuel, you own the fire," Mr Johnstone said.
"Weather conditions are becoming favourable for hazard reduction activities and we encourage landowners to consider what steps they should be taking to reduce their risk."
There are a number of ways residents can reduce fire risk on their land, such as slashing paddocks, creating fire breaks and clearing vegetation from around the home.
Mr Johnstone said the first step for landholders wanting to light a fire requiring a permit was to consult their neighbours.
"Permits are required at all times for a fire which is bigger than two metres in any direction," he said.
To download an application form and locate your local Fire Warden visit www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au.
