A simple spark from an angle grinder could have fatal consequences this summer.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
So could the use of other power-tools, mowers, welders and slashers on a hot day.
The use of these objects during a fire ban period is considered reckless and to highlight the dangers Crime Stoppers Victoria launched its Bushfire Arson Campaign in Wodonga on Thursday.
District 24 CFA operations Officer Paul King said it is “unbelievable” people would deliberately light fires.
“We've had a number of fires deliberately lit already including ones down at Browns Plains to the West of Wodonga and the fire at Wahgunyah,” he said.
“We are equally worried about people who don't think about what they are doing.
“You could put your last dollar on someone using an angle grinder near dry grass and it will start a fire.
“We've had fires start this way where people have been killed, it’s absolutely tragic.
“It’s looking very difficult this year, we've been fighting fires since early October and still have a long way to go.”
The campaign was launched following the 2009 Black Saturday fires which killed two people at Mudgegonga and threatened Yackandandah, Stanley, Dederang and Kancoona.
Crime Stoppers Victoria community manager Peter Brown said it had led to a 300 per cent increase in reports on reckless fires and arson.
“With the Crime Stoppers app, you can take a photo of a suspicious car or person and upload it,” he said.
“It is 100 per cent confidential and anonymous, so if you are reporting information you won’t end up in court as a witness.”
Recklessly lighting a bush fire carries a penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment.
Lighting a fire on total fire ban day is up to two years imprisonment and $35,000 in fines and during a restricted period is up to 12 months imprisonment and $15,000.
Victoria Police superintendent Paul O’Halloran said fires can destroy communities, homes and industry.
“I’m really seeking the community's help - if they see suspicious behaviour, particularly on days of heightened fire risk, it is critically important they notify the police immediately.”
The Department of Land, Environment, Water and Planning advised people to put out camp fires properly.
Ten people in the Hume region were charged last season by the department as a result of having fires on total fire ban days.
Wodonga Mayor Anna Speedie said fire bugs wouldn’t be tolerated
“It's not just about firies and it’s not just about police, it’s about the community taking responsibility and also caring about their neighbour.”
Suspicious behaviour should be reported to Crime Stopper on 1800 333 000.
