Total Fire Ban today (Sunday)

TODAY, Sunday, December 20, has been declared a Day of Total Fire Ban for much of Tasmania including the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands and the rest of the Southern and Northern regions of the state.

No fires may now be lit or allowed to remain alight in the open air until Monday, December 21.

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 three 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. 

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

Fire Weather Warning
for the Furneaux Islands, Central North, North East, East Coast, Midlands, Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts
Issued at 4:30pm on Saturday 19 December 2015.

Weather Situation
Maximum temperatures reaching the mid to high thirties, relative humidity down to around 20%, and winds up to 30 to 35 km/h are expected today. Similar conditions are expected on Sunday although northwesterly winds are expected to reach 35 to 50km/h.

For Sunday, December 20:
Very High Fire Danger is forecast for the following forecast districts: Central North and Upper Derwent Valley
Some bushfires breaking out will spread rapidly and be difficult to control. There is a possibility that people in the path of a fire who are not well prepared may be killed or seriously injured.

The Tasmania Fire Service advises you to:

• Action your Bushfire Survival Plan now.
• Monitor the fire and weather situation through your local radio station, www.fire.tas.gov.au and www.bom.gov.au.
• Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.
• For information on preparing for bushfires go to www.fire.tas.gov.au.

The next warning will be issued by 5am Sunday.