PRESCRIBED burns are set for record numbers this season as the Department for Environment and Water prepares to reduce bushfire risk in areas across South Australia.
Over spring and autumn, 65 burns treating over 7300 hectares of bushfire fuel loads are taking place on national parks, Crown land, council and SA Water land and private properties.
Department for Environment and Water Minister David Speirs said the State Government was working with landholders to prepare for the upcoming season.
“Preparation is the most important thing when it comes to bushfire season and the State Government is focused on reducing the threat this summer,” Mr Speirs said.
“It is crucial all landholders are armed and ready with a bushfire survival plan.
“Primary producers, councils and community members have planned a number of strategic cross-tenure prescribed burns, limiting bushfire risk.”
Department for Environment and Water fire management staff are in constant communication with the Bureau of Meteorology and the CFS to find the right conditions to burn in different areas across the state.
“The warmer weather should serve as a reminder for everyone to start preparing for the fire danger season, which is a few weeks away,” Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services Minister Corey Wingard said.
“Everyone has a responsibility to be ready to reduce fire hazards around their properties.
“This includes simple tasks such as mowing lawns, trimming over-hanging trees or branches and clearing gutters of leaves and shrubs.”
Dry conditions are expected to persist throughout spring and summer with parts of the state expecting an above-average fire season.
