Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has imposed a local fire ban for residents within the South West Region, including the Southern Downs Regional Council area.
A QFES bulletin issued today – Wednesday 23 September – says the local fire ban will be in place from 0001 hours tomorrow, Thursday, 24 September, for residents in the Southern Downs, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, Western Downs, Maranoa, Murweh, Quilpie, Bulloo, Paroo and Balonne Local Government Areas.
“Current and upcoming fire conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly,” the QFES bulletin said.
“Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire which have been issued in the designated areas have been cancelled.
“Power tools may be used during a local fire ban, however QFES encourages people to use these with extreme care and ensure adequate equipment is available to extinguish any fire which may start.
“This may include having a person available to watch out for any ignitions that occur.
“The ban is expected to remain in place until 2359 hours on Monday, 28 September.
“Information on fire bans and the exemptions that can apply can be found on the RFS website, ruralfire.qld.gov.au.
