PROTECTING STATE LAND FROM WILDFIRES

The Queensland Government will conduct hazard-reduction burns on state land in the Maryborough area, Natural Resources Minister Craig Wallace said today.

Mr Wallace said the operations were part of a program to protect state land from wildfires and would be conducted with the cooperation of the Maryborough City Council and the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service.

“Controlled burns will take place this week adjacent to Hoffmann and Arnaud streets, Granville, and adjacent to Range and Cardigan streets, Granville,” Mr Wallace said.

“Fire crews will conduct a third burn adjacent to the Walker Street Rifle Range later in the month, weather permitting.”

Mr Wallace said a smoke hazard could occur in and around the areas to be burnt, depending on wind conditions.

Residents around the hazard-reduction burn area are reminded to take the following precautions:

·Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering homes

·Keep outdoor furniture under cover to prevent ember burns

·Retract pool covers to prevent ember damage

·Remove washing from clotheslines

·Ensure pets have a protected area

·Motorists must slow down, keep windows up and turn headlights on

·Sightseers must keep away from fires for their own safety

·Reduce outdoor activities if smoke levels are high.

Media contact: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0407 131 654.