Fire volunteers deployed north

THE Country Fire Service has deployed six volunteer firefighters from the Tatiara District to help fight several raging fires in Queensland.

Flying out with around 70 other volunteers on Wednesday, the firefighters will be on the ground to assist for three days before returning to the region.

Region 5 acting commander Sam Quigley said the six volunteers were highly-skilled frontline firefighters.

“They are very experienced firefighters who are well-prepared to respond to an incident like this,” Mr Quigley said.

While no other volunteers from the region have been deployed, Mr Quigley said they remain on standby to help.

“In this case, due to the short time frames for travel, we selected the contingent from Tatiara due to the proximity to Adelaide,” Mr Quigley said.

“If additional resources are required, we will look to deploy more volunteers from the Lower South East.”

Mr Quigley said Queensland was currently experiencing extreme fire weather, which had led to a number of uncontrollable blazes.

He said it served as a reminder for the community about the fire risks posed.

“This Saturday we are expecting the first total fire ban day for the Upper South East, with severe fire conditions forecast,” Mr Quigley said.

“What is happening in Queensland is a reminder to be prepared.”