North Queensland residents undertaking hazard reduction burns on their property are being urged to obtain a permit before lighting up.
Rural Fire Service (RFS) Regional Manager Tony Hazell said while it was encouraging to see most landowners doing the right thing, there were still a small number of residents ignoring their obligation to obtain a permit.
"It's concerning to see instances where property owners are taking the risk and lighting up without obtaining a permit," Mr Hazell said.
"We also see some landowners who have a permit ignoring the conditions of that permit, which can include burning in the right weather conditions.
"Hazard reduction burns are an excellent way to reduce fire fuel loads and reduce bushfire risk when completed safely and in consultation with a local Fire Warden.
"Local fire wardens know the area, so they will assess your plans, any hazards on your property and issue a permit.
"It is a landowner's legal responsibility to obtain a permit if they are planning to conduct a burn larger than two meters in any direction."
Mr Hazell said property owners should also consider fire mitigation activities such as constructing firebreaks and clearing excess vegetation.
"Bushfire preparedness is a community effort and it's up to each individual landowner to ensure they have strategies in place should a bushfire threaten their property.
"Fire breaks and fire management lines can be constructed to help protect assets and assist firefighters by creating access to a property.
"If you're unsure, Fire Wardens are a wealth of knowledge and can assist in identifying the best bushfire mitigation strategies for your property.
For more information contact your local Fire Warden, visit ruralfire.qld.gov.au or call the Townsville Office on (07) 4796 9082.
