2 May 2007 - 10:30 AMMedia Release : Fire Danger Season extension revised for Mount Lofty RangesMedia ReleaseThe SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has revised the extension of the Fire Danger Season for the Mount Lofty Ranges Fire Ban District.Due to end on the 31 May 2007, the date has now been revised to end at midnight Friday 4 May 2007.The recent rains experienced across South Australia, and particularly the Mount Lofty Ranges, have dramatically reduced the ground and fuel moisture content.The community is reminded that even though the area has received a significant amount of rain over the last week, it will only take a few days of warm to hot conditions for vegetation to dry posing a continuing fire risk.CFS are urging private landowners who are planning to conduct burn off operations from this weekend to be vigilant and mindful of the conditions.Region 1 Commander, Mark Thomason, said the end of the fire danger season is traditionally the time when burn offs are conducted.‘Those who are planning burning off activities have a duty of care to ensure that fires do not get out of control and threaten lives and property’, Mark said.‘Any burning off activities to be conducted around homes and property should be done in suitable weather conditions to help reduce the risk of burn offs spreading out of control’, he said.‘Although permits are not required outside of the Fire Danger Season, strict guidelines do apply’.‘These guidelines can be obtained from local councils and severe penalties will apply if fire restrictions are not adhered to’.On days of total fire ban declared outside of the fire danger season, permits are required and may be obtained from local councils.Despite the fire danger season concluding for all fire ban districts across the state, the community is encouraged to remain bushfire ready; maintain their properties and ensure fuel loads are kept to a minimum.For 24 hour advice in fire restrictions and fire bans, please conduct the CFS Bushfire Hotline on 1300 362 361 or visit www.cfs.sa.gov.au
