The Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) today joined Bushfires NT at Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex to launch this year’s Top End fire season.
Bushfires NT acting executive director Collene Bremner said bushfires can put lives, property and the environment at risk.
“We have just had one of our wettest Wet Seasons on record and this means there is a greater risk of bushfires this Dry Season,” Ms Bremner said.
“That’s why Bushfires NT is urging rural landholders to act now and follow a few simple tips to help protect their homes and their communities.
“This includes keeping fuel loads to a minimum around your property by clearing away dried grass, dead leaves and branches.
“Trim back trees that overhang structures and control or eradicate grassy weed species.
“Maintain a well-cut, green lawn around your home and install firebreaks that are free from slashed or dead material and don’t have any vegetation more than 50 millimetres high.”
The fundamental principle established by the Bushfires Management Act is that the responsibility for bushfire management rests with the landholder.
NTFRS acting chief fire officer David Letheby said rural landholders must establish and maintain clear firebreaks with a minimum width of four metres.
“Firebreaks help save lives and limit the spread of bushfires,” Mr Letheby said.
“It’s in the best interests of you and your community to ensure your property is ready for the upcoming fire season.
“So don’t delay, prepare your firebreaks now to protect your family, property and the environment.
“Failure to do so could result in a fine or imprisonment.
“We also urge the public to report acts of arson or other suspicious activity around their community by calling Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
Go to www.nt.gov.au/bushfires for more information about Bushfires NT or http://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/Fire-and-Rescue.aspx for more information about the NTFRS.
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Media Note - For further information / interview please contact Collene Bremner (Bushfires NT) on 0419 808 297 or Hannah Farmer (NTFRS) on 0476 835 348.
Vision of today's controlled burning operations at Hidden Valley is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1Ar8hkEgNQ&feature=youtu.be
