QFES personnel respond to 290 bushfires in 24 hours to 8am

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Katarina Carroll today (Monday) urged residents to keep up-to-date and follow instructions during the state’s bushfire emergency.

Ms Carroll said firefighters responded to more than 290 bushfires over the 24 hours to 8am (Monday) with a Very High Fire Danger Rating (FDR) continuing for much of the state.

“Firefighters have worked extremely hard over the weekend as conditions have been very challenging with no reprieve in sight today,” Ms Carroll said.

“About 800 bushfires have been reported since Wednesday (15 Aug) with more than 290 reported in the last 24 hours alone (to 8am).

“We are expecting bushfire activity to remain high over the coming days and it is imperative the public remain up-to-date and follow all instructions.  

“There has already been a Prepare to Leave (Watch and Act) warning for Crystal Creek this morning (Monday) and this just shows a bushfire can start and spread at any time, day or night.”

Mr Crawford praised the ongoing efforts of “our dedicated QFES staff and volunteers”.

“Our crews are doing a wonderful job but unfortunately that job isn’t over – with weather forecasts suggesting there will be more of the same in the weeks and months ahead.”

Fire bans imposed in the Ipswich, Somerset, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Scenic Rim and Gold Coast local government areas are due to end at midnight tonight.

“The work residents in urban or semi-rural areas do can be just as important as the efforts of major landholders or our partner agencies in reducing bushfire threats,” Mr Crawford said.

“Other measures include clearing leaves, twigs, bark and debris from roofs and gutters, and trimming low-lying branches around the home or yard.

“All of these actions, no matter how small they may seem, can make a big difference in an emergency.”

People are being urged to report fires to Triple Zero (000).

KEEP UP-TO-DATE BY: •           Following QFES on Facebook (@QldFireandRescueService) and Twitter (@QldFES) •           Staying tuned to your local radio station

• Visiting the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website at www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/map
  

FURTHER INFORMATION: •           For bushfire preparation tips, visit the RFS website: www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/BushFire_Safety •           For information about road closures, call 13 19 40 or visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au

ENDS

MEDIA 0412 393 909