High winds cause fires in the Region

Deputy Principal Rural Fire Officer Southern Rural Fire District Elton Smith said that several fires in the region today were avoidable.

Following on from last week’s call from the rural fire authority for farmers to exercise maximum care with burn-offs, there were several fires including a major incident near Dipton following farmers burning material on their properties.

“Today’s fires were avoidable and when planning burn-offs farmers should look at the forecast at least three to four days out to make sure that there aren’t likely to be high winds”, he said.

Elton Smith said that if you want to learn more or are unsure of the best practice for burn-offs, or need to obtain a fire permit, then contact the Southern Rural Fire Authority on 0800 773 363 and allow up to five working days for permit applications to be processed.