Total fire bans are not an uncommon part of Tasmanian life.
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But with limited rain, dry undergrowth and forecast hot temperatures for most of the state today, Tasmania Fire Service and Bureau of Meteorology experts are predicting a potentially bad day for wildfire to roar.
A 24-hour fire ban for Northern and Southern regions is in place until 2am Saturday.
Even from the most innocuous act.
Mowing the lawn could put lives at risk.
Same too for acts like lighting a fire pot, the wood-fuelled barbecue or grinding material outside.
Important for those out camping or on the land to remember.
Serious blazes in Western Australian in recent times are testament to that.
It is exactly six years since the tragic events at Dunalley took place – and no one wants to relive an experience like that again.
Several National Park bushwalking tracks – including Freycinet, Maria Island and Mount Field – are closed as it’s been deemed too dangerous.
So avoid being outdoors in the heat or where danger could strike.
TFS Deputy Chief Officer Bruce Byatt said fires will be difficult to control today – just like the deliberately lit blaze on Bruny Island at Christmas.
Where someone’s stupidity forced many families to evacuate their homes and spend the festive season somewhere foreign.
He stressed the need for Tasmanians to understand the dangers simple acts can have not only for themselves, but others too.
“People can assist with these challenges by promptly reporting fires via triple-0, preparing their properties, reviewing their bushfire survival plans and keeping up-to-date on changing conditions,” he said.
People can do that via the www.fire.tas.gov.au, www.examiner.com.au or by listening to ABC Radio.
Keep safe, don’t be stupid and if a situation does arise listen to the advice of emergency services who are in the best position to try and keep you alive.