Key Takeaways
- A bushfire in Tasmania that destroyed 19 homes was caused by a registered burn that was not extinguished properly.
- The landowner had covered the fire with sand, which contained the heat and allowed embers to escape when the wind picked up.
- Authorities have confirmed that the fire was caused by the improper extinguishing of the burn.
- The Tasmania Fire Service is reminding people of the importance of properly extinguishing burns and campfires.
- The state’s fire permit period will start on Tuesday, with those conducting burns required to apply for a free permit online or by phone.
Introduction to the Bushfire
A recent bushfire in Tasmania has been confirmed to have been caused by a registered burn that was not extinguished properly. The fire, which destroyed 19 homes and damaged a total of 33 houses, was first reported on December 4. Many residents were evacuated for days before they were allowed to return to their homes. The fire also destroyed powerline infrastructure and damaged 122 other assets, including sheds, caravans, water tanks, garages, and electrical poles.
Cause of the Bushfire
According to Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) deputy chief officer Matt Lowe, the landowner had chosen to cover the fire with sand, which contained the heat in the ground and allowed embers to escape when the wind picked up. This improper extinguishing of the fire ultimately led to the devastating bushfire. Mr. Lowe emphasized the importance of properly extinguishing burns and campfires, stating that one should never cover a fire with sand, but rather cool it with water, rake out the coals, and monitor it until it is fully extinguished.
Impact of the Bushfire
The bushfire has had a significant impact on the community, with many residents affected by the destruction of their homes and property. The fire has also highlighted the importance of proper fire safety and management. The Tasmania Fire Service has been working to educate the public on the dangers of improper fire extinguishing and the importance of taking necessary precautions when conducting burns or using campfires.
Fire Safety and Prevention
The Tasmania Fire Service is reminding people of the importance of properly extinguishing burns and campfires. This includes cooling the fire with water, raking out the coals, and monitoring it until it is fully extinguished. The service is also emphasizing the need for people to be cautious when conducting burns or using campfires, and to take necessary precautions to prevent fires from getting out of control.
Fire Permit Period
The Tasmania Fire Service has announced that the state’s fire permit period will start on Tuesday. During this period, those conducting burns will be required to apply for a free permit online or by phone on 1800 000 699. Applicants will then be contacted by a permit officer who will provide advice on how to conduct a safe burn. This is an important step in preventing future bushfires and ensuring public safety.
Conclusion
The recent bushfire in Tasmania is a reminder of the importance of proper fire safety and management. The fire, which was caused by a registered burn that was not extinguished properly, has had a significant impact on the community. The Tasmania Fire Service is working to educate the public on the dangers of improper fire extinguishing and the importance of taking necessary precautions when conducting burns or using campfires. By taking the necessary steps to prevent fires and promote fire safety, we can work to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
