Four people reported over fire ban offences, South Australia

Four people have been reported for offences relating to today’s total fire ban issued in the Mount Lofty Ranges.

Today, Monday 12 November, was declared a Severe Fire Danger day in the Mount Lofty Ranges and a Total Fire Ban was issued.

Hills Fleurieu Police implemented Operation Nomad in response to the danger, concentrating on reducing the incidence of arson and bushfires caused by deliberate, reckless or negligent activity.

Police responded to several incidents throughout the day and four people were reported for offences relating to the fire ban.

At Carey Gully, a woman was reported for lighting a rubbish fire. At Currency Creek, a man was reported for lighting a camp fire. At Crafers, a man was reported for lighting a rubbish fire, and at Bridgewater, a man was reported for using a chain saw during a total fire ban.

They will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

For information on obligations and restrictions during the Fire Danger Season, fire danger ratings and fire bans, go to www.cfs.sa.gov.au, or contact the CFS.

The CFS Chief Officer declares a Total Fire Ban for each Fire Ban District on days where the Fire Danger Rating is Severe, Extreme or Catastrophic.

A Total Fire Ban day can be declared at any time of year and for any Fire Ban District with the ban in place for 24 hours.

Fire Danger Ratings indicate the degree of difficulty of stopping a fire under the predicted weather conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology, in partnership with CFS, determines the Fire Danger Ratings based on a combination of predicted weather conditions and current observations.

Penalties of up to $10,000 and two year’s gaol or on-the-spot fines of up to $315 may be enforced if Total Fire Ban conditions are not met.

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