Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Services have renewed calls for rural landholders to maintain their firebreaks or risk being fined ahead of this year’s southern bushfire season.
Higher than average rainfall across the southern region in the past 12 months has resulted in increased fuel loads around residential and rural properties, posing a danger to property owners in the rural area.
Southern Acting District Officer Stephen Hunter said recent checks undertaken by NTFRS officers had revealed a high number of rural properties without the required property firebreak.
“Recent checks have shown there are still a lot of rural properties which do not have adequate fire breaks in place,” said A/DO Hunter
“The installation of fire breaks on rural properties is not just a legislative requirement but is also an essential step owners can take to protect their property during the fire season. Not only does it assist in slowing down a fire, but it also provides clear access for attending fire crews.”
Rural land owners have until 31 August 2022 to establish a four metre fire break around the perimeter, which consists of either bare earth or grass slashed to less than 50mm, in place.
Failure to do so will result in an infringement notice and a victim level fine, totalling $660.
For further information in regards to fire safety and requirements, click here https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/fire-and-rescue-service/fire-safety/firebreaks
