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Court case highlights need for vigilance and responsibility

Wednesday 1 September 2010, 9:24AM

By Southland District Council

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SOUTHLAND

A recent court case in Invercargill has highlighted the importance of being vigilant and responsible when lighting fires, Southern Rural Fire Authority principal rural fire officer Mike Grant said.

Southland farmer Murray Maxwell was left with a $500,000 firefighting bill after a fire broke out on his property during December, 2008. As a result of the fire, 588ha of land was burnt including more than 250ha of significant conservation land and 4ha of neighbouring farm land, as well as some structures and fences.

Mr Grant said people need to plan for and be aware of numerous factors when lighting a fire, such as the length of time a fire can burn for and what the weather is forecasted to be.

"We are coming up to the equinox, for example, which will mean the weather will tend to be windier, warmer and drier," which will increase the risk of a fire escaping.

The type of fire season is important too, with a restricted fire season meaning a fire permit is required before lighting a fire in most cases, he said.

Mr Maxwell's permit, however, had expired several weeks previously, make the "fire unlawful," Mr Grant said.

This highlights the requirement for people to make sure fires are extinguished by the expiry dates of the fire permit.

"It is necessary for people to take full responsibility and plan ahead when lighting fires and in Mr Maxwell's case, he didn't."

"The person who lights the fire is responsible and liable for any damages and costs incurred if something goes wrong. Authorities and other affected parties can take action to recover costs and damages caused by fire."

Although it was rare for the authority to lay charges, it was essential the public realised the importance of acting lawfully and responsibly, Mr Grant said.