Total fire ban tomorrow

DUE to hot weather conditions throughout today and forecasts for very high to severe fire weather for tomorrow, Tasmania Fire Service acting chief officer Gavin Freeman has declared a Total Fire Ban for the for southern and northern districts of Tasmania from midnight tonight (January 2) until midnight tomorrow (January 3).

"Tomorrow will see hot dry weather with forecast gusty winds of more than 50km/h in parts of the state. This will make any fire start difficult to control," Mr Freeman said.

"All Tasmanians are asked to take extra care. Machinery that emit sparks, such as mowers, slashers, grinders and other cutting tools are banned as this type of activity has the potential to start fires. Harvesting will be banned between 11am and 6pm on the day of the ban," he said.

"While the ban is in place please avoid non-essential water use. Turning off sprinkler systems and using hoses sparingly will help ensure that water is available for firefighting and protecting properties should it be required.

Mr Freeman said everyone living in and around the bush should review their bushfire survival plan now and be prepared to implement that plan if required. Details on how to prepare a bushfire survival plan, preparing your property for bushfires and other fire safety tips can be found from the front page of the TFS website www.fire.tas.gov.au

"There are significant penalties that can be imposed on anyone not adhering to the total fire ban restrictions," Mr Freeman said.

All fires should be reported by dialling triple zero (000).

Listen to ABC local radio or visit the TFS website (www.fire.tas.gov.au) to keep up to date with conditions.

General Advice on a Day of Total Fire Ban

Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment that use a naked flame or generate sparks such as welding or grinding, must not be used in the open air.

If essential works are required to be done a special permit may be issued, after a thorough investigation of each application. Apply to your TFS Regional Office.

Barbecues that use wood, charcoal or other solid fuel are banned
Gas and electric barbecues are permitted subject to the strict application of the conditions set out below. Gas and electric barbecues provided in public reserves/campsites may be used providing:

• the barbecue is electric or gas fired
• the barbecue is fixed permanent structure.

Portable gas and electric barbecues may be used provided the barbecue is located within 20 metres of a permanent dwelling (mobile homes, caravans or tents are not classified as permanent dwellings).

Additional conditions that apply to the use of portable electric and gas fired barbecues and barbecues in public reserves and campsites:

• the area for 3 metres around and above the barbecue is completely cleared of flammable material.
• an adult is in attendance at all times
• a tap with hose connected is ready for use
• at least 10 litres of water is on hand in case of emergency.

Commercial caterers are required to obtain a special permit from your TFS Regional Office.

Water Usage
For information regarding water usage during a day of Total Fire Ban please refer to www.taswater.com.au