42 local government areas of Queensland are now under a State Of Fire Emergency, as blazes continue to burn and evacuations continue around Noosa and the Sunshine Coast.
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A State Of Fire Emergency prohibits the lighting of all types of outdoor fires, bans some activities that could cause fire like sugar cane burning and fireworks, and allows authorities to draw on private resources should they need to when it comes to fire prevention and control.
“We’re experiencing tinder box-like conditions across much of the state and all it takes is one spark to start a fire that may burn for days,” QFES Acting Commissioner Mike Wassing said in a statement as reported by ABC Gold Coast.
The State Of Fire Emergency has been active since 5pm today (Saturday), and the 42 local government areas are spread across south-east, south-west, central, north and far-north Queensland.
It also overrides any existing permits to light fires in the area, and penalties for breaking the rules are hefty.
“The penalties for contravening this declaration are serious – a fine of up to $3,336 or two years imprisonment,” Acting Commissioner Wassing said.
The full list of areas under the State Of Fire Emergency can be found here.
