SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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Warning over burning vegetation

10/10/2015

SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has been called to a number of incidents this week where burn offs of vegetation piles or rubbish have been out of control.

CFS is warning the community to ensure they follow the correct when lighting a fire this time of year so they don't spread and damage property.

State Coordinator Mark Thomason said before lighting any fire you need to take precautions to make sure it doesn't get out of control, these include having sufficient water on hand and clearance around the pile.

"In the past two days, CFS has attended three incidents where people have been burning vegetation which has spread," Mr Thomason said.

"Although the incidents of recent days haven't burned more than two hectares, in one case it spread into a neighbours property, while another threatened a home."

Earlier this year Codes of Practice were released for Vegetation Pile Burning. These codes provide guidelines for people before they light a fire so they can ensure it does not get out of control.

"Although the Fire Danger Season has not begun, people need to take care when lighting any fire."

"There should be four metres of cleared earth surrounding all piles before they are lit, you should also have access to water and monitor the fire until it has extinguished."

"People also need to check the weather and monitor any wind changes which may mean flames or embers spread."

The full Codes of Practice are available on the CFS website.

For more information please call the CFS Media Unit on 8212 9849.

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

Government of South Australia