"The Total Fire Ban that is in place has been extended until midnight on Friday because of the predicted conditions," state fire controller Greg Butters," Greg Butters said.
The conditions in some areas are expected to see Very High and Severe fire danger ratings. Dry and windy conditions and temperatures in the high 20s to mid-30s are expected. A front is expected to cross the south east mid-morning and reach the northeast by mid-afternoon. The front is expected to bring stronger and gustier wind speeds and the potential for thunderstorms.
The continuation of a Total Fire Ban means that no fires can be lit in the open air. The embargo on all permits is to also continue. Operators of machinery are to comply with the TFS Machinery Operations Guidelines in relation to operating under Total Fire Ban declarations which can be found on the TFS website.
"Fires that occur will be difficult to control and we urge the public to report any fires to TFS immediately by calling triple zero (000) to give us the best chance of containing the fire quickly," Mr Butters said.
"We ask that people check all fires they may have had on their property, including any campfires to ensure they are fully extinguished. People are also encouraged to check their Bushfire Survival Plan and be ready to act if needed," Mr Butters said.
The Tasmania Fire Service, along with Parks and Wildlife Service and Sustainable Timber Tasmania, are maintaining a heightened state of readiness, with strategically-placed strike teams and aircraft, incident management teams and extra firefighting resources on standby in order to attack fires quickly.
When instances of higher fire danger occur, it is important that people know exactly what to do if a fire threatens their home or property. To assist with this planning, residents are encouraged to visit the TFS website to view the Community Bushfire Protection Plan that may cover their area. These are developed to inform residents of Nearby Safer Places, evacuation routes and how to receive emergency information. Information is also included that will assist in preparing individual Bushfire Survival Plans prior to a fire occurring.
The Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service has established a campfire restriction in National Park including those in the Upper Derwent Valley. The restriction bans the lighting or use by any person of any campfire, fire pot or other device that burns coal, wood, plant material or any other solid fuel. Gas stoves are permitted. The restriction will be in place from Saturday, January 20, until Wednesday, March 14.
Details of campfire restrictions are available on the PWS website at www.parks.tas.gov.au or by contacting the Parks and Wildlife Service on 1300 827 727.
For more information about Total Fire Bans visit www.fire.tas.gov.au and listen to ABC Local Radio in the event of an emergency.
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