PREVENTING bushfires is everyone’s responsibility.
That’s the message from Wedderburn police sergeant Ben Huisman a week into the summer fire season.
“Accidental and recklessly lit fires are just as devastating as those fires deliberately lit. The consequences and outcomes to the community are the same.” Sgt Huisman said.
Victoria Police and Crime Stoppers have launched new campaign - You Light It, You Own It - reminding people to exercise caution to avoid starting reckless or accidental fires.
Police have also strated their Operation Safeguard aiming ti deter or reduce the impact of fires across Victoria.
Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive Stella Smith said: “We want Victorians to stop and think before their actions cause a fire this summer.”
“Bushfires can start from actions as simple as lighting a campfire or using farm machinery and power tools on a hot and windy day. No one wants to be responsible for risking lives from an out-of-control fire, so we want to encourage people to make the right decisions.”
“The forecast is for a hot summer and we want the community’s help to stop bushfires before they start.”