The Tasmanian Government is reminding all Tasmanians of their responsibility to prevent fires with the launch of the new 'You light it, you own it' campaign.
The campaign, delivered by Crime Stoppers Tasmania, aims to remind all Tasmanians to take responsibility for any fire they light and to adopt safe practices to reduce the risk of bushfires this summer.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, said accidental and recklessly lit fires are just as devastating as those that are deliberately lit, and Tasmanians need to ensure they're aware of their surroundings and act responsibly.
"The message is simple - your fire is your responsibility. Reckless and accidental fires put people's lives and property at risk.
"Tasmania is one of the most bushfire prone places in the world, and through our Government's 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, we're backing in campaigns like this to keep our communities safe."
Chair of Crime Stoppers Tasmania, David Daniels said unlawfully lighting fires and disregarding fire permits is a serious crime that can have devastating effects, and we are reminding the community that your fire is your responsibility - You light it, you own it.
"It's up to us all to keep our communities safe," he said.
"We are calling on the public to report unsafe or suspicious fire activity to Crime Stoppers Tasmania or directly to Tasmania Police."
With bushfire risk heightened during the summer months, the Tasmanian Government is urging everyone to follow fire safety guidelines, respect fire bans, and ensure any fire they light is properly managed - including obtaining permits for fires over one cubic metre, checking for total fire bans, and never leaving fires unattended.
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner, Jeremy Smith said the Tasmania Fire Service is asking the community to avoid risky activities during high fire danger weather and to take every precaution to prevent fires from starting.
"When leaving your fire, make sure it's completely out. Use water—don't rely on soil or sand as fires can smoulder underneath for hours. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again to ensure its fully extinguished," Commissioner Smith said.
"Whether it's obeying fire bans, taking care with tools, or speaking up when you see others doing the wrong thing, your actions could save lives."
