Operation Cool Burn activated

People across Queensland are being urged to ‘Get Ready’ for bushfire mitigation season by reducing fire risk on their properties as part of Operation Cool Burn.

Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Jack Dempsey said Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) will work proactively with landholders as part of Operation Cool Burn.

“The Queensland Government is committed to a safer state and that is why we’re urging people to take action now before the fire season starts,” Mr Dempsey said.

“In addition to mitigation activities, firefighters will help local communities prepare for the upcoming bushfire season by delivering bushfire preparedness information.

“This is a call to action for landholders and residents across Queensland. Operation Cool Burn is a community event we all can be involved in.

“It is essential for Queenslanders to reduce fire risk on their properties. Remember: if you own the fuel, you own the fire.

Mr Dempsey said the proactive activities being undertaken by QFES staff and volunteers should prompt community members to start preparing themselves and their families.

“Ahead of this year’s bushfire season, if we all do a little, we’ll accomplish a lot,” he said.

“I urge all Queenslanders to identify their risk and start talking about their bushfire survival plan.”

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Lee Johnson said the Operation Cool Burn standing order, which had been distributed to all firefighters around the State, outlined several objectives for crews to work towards before the end of winter.

“Queensland firefighters will identify bushfire-prone areas, prioritise areas to conduct mitigation activities and engage with local landholders to assist them with reducing their risk through activities such as controlled burns,” Commissioner Johnson said.

“Queensland’s bushfire season traditionally begins mid-year so it’s vital that these activities are undertaken now to avoid a disaster later in the year.

“At the end of this mitigation period we aim to have a substantial reduction in areas at risk of bushfire and communities that are well prepared for the 2014 fire season.”

More information on preparing for bushfire season can be found atwww.ruralfire.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 4 April 2014                                    

Media Contact: Callum Stewart 0403 925 703