SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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CFS WARNS OF BURN-OFFS OUT OF CONTROL

28/09/2014

The SA Country Service (CFS) warns of the dangers of undertaking burning off activities under hazardous conditions after 23 grass fires were ignited across South Australia today, mostly as the result of burn offs that got away.

The state is experiencing wind gusts between 90 and 120 kph as indicated in the Bureau of Meteorology's forecast, which means a burn off can easily get out of control if not managed appropriately.

CFS State Coordinator Mark Thomason says people need to check weather conditions prior to burning off, including the forecast for the coming days.

"Burning should be carried out with extreme caution as there is a great risk of it getting out of control if undertaken in hazardous weather conditions," Mr Thomason said.

"We have seen several burns get out of control today, and we are asking for the cooperation of the local community to cease burn-off activity until milder conditions are presented.

"We understand the need for rural property owners to burn-off, but our primary concern is public safety and not placing our volunteers at unnecessary risk due to responding to incidents that could have been avoided."

It is important that people monitor their burns and have an appropriate extinguishing agent on hand.

Once the burn has been completed, people must continually monitor the site for possible rekindling.

State Coordinator Thomason also said this is a timely reminder that people need to be aware that from now on there may be Total Fire Bans imposed until the commencement of the Fire Danger Season.

"People must be aware of the restrictions that are in place when a Total Fire Ban has been declared, and the relevant permits that are be required," Mr Thomason said.

For more information visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au.

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Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia