By JONATHON HOWARD
A GRASS fire that threatened several properties at the corner of Lyndhurst Lane and Glen Road was quickly contained last week – as firefighters brace for a horror season ahead.
The first fire outbreak of spring for Warwick started about 12.45pm last Wednesday.
The cause of the fire was still being investigated by fire authorities, but it was believed to have started from a cigarette butt.
The fire spread uphill at a rapid rate and had consumed more than 12 acres of grass land by 1.30pm with a 25km per hour westerly wind fanning the flames.
Queensland Fire and Rescue firefighters from Warwick branch established a containment perimeter with support from police co-ordinating traffic and onlookers.
Firefighters said the fire was never an immediate threat to surrounding homes as it was doused before it could engulf larger trees surrounding the paddock.
Residents surrounding the area who spoke with the Free Times.
“It was a shock and we were all ready to evacuate,” one resident said.
“But once the firefighters had it under control we knew it was OK.”
It took fire authorities about three hours to contain the grass fire. By late afternoon it had left at least 20 acres of paddock charred.
Warwick station officer Dennis Burton said the exact cause of the fire was under investigation.
“It’s a timely reminder for people to be careful with any ignition sources such as cigarette butts, power tools, slashers and mowers,” he said.
“All these are capable of causing a fire, leading to disastrous results.”
Officer Burton said the current fire warning level was very high.
“There is some rain predicted towards the end of the week, but it won’t be substantial enough to reduce significant fire risk.”
He urged residents to be vigilant, take necessary precautions and prepare their home.
“Dial 000 at the first sign of any fire,” he said.
“Those living in the urban fringe with bush around them need to take precautions and learn some skills.”
The Warwick Fire Station will soon be holding a community meeting to talk about what to do in the event of a fire. For more information, contact Dennis Burton on (07) 4667 5167.
