Half of all fires in Victoria are either deliberately lit or the result of reckless conduct.
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Country Fire Authority, Forest Fire Management Victoria, Victoria Police, Crime Stoppers and City of Greater Bendigo representatives gathered in Bendigo on Wednesday to appeal for help to reduce that figure.
“People need to be aware of what's happening, especially where they live and travel,” CFA community education coordinator Paul Tangey said.
“This year there is a huge risk of grass fire right throughout the state… as well as the bushfires we experience from time to time.
“There is unprecedented growth and we need to be aware of what’s happening, we need to keep up with what’s going on, and we need to make sure if we see something we say something.”
Starting a bushfire because of reckless conduct is mentioned in the same legislation as deliberately starting a fire, Crime Stoppers Victoria community manager Chris Plumridge said.
“Whether it’s a campfire on a total fire ban day, or whether you’re grinding or welding and there’s a spark, reckless bushfire arson can still result in the same tragic consequences as deliberate arson,” he said.
Both deliberate and reckless arson are subject to heavy penalties.
Bendigo Detective Acting Inspector Terry Hopley said people could be jailed for up to 15 years for a deliberately lit fire.
The maximum penalty for lighting a fire in an open area during a fire danger period is a $18,500 fine.
Lighting a fire during a Total Fire Ban can result in up to two years of imprisonment or a $37,000 fine.
“We need the community’s support in reporting unsafe behaviour so we can stop bushfire arson before it happens,” Detective Inspector Hopley said.
“As a community, we owe it to each other to remain vigilant and responsible when out and about this summer.”
Mr Plumridge urged people with information to call Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or to submit a report using the website.
“A report to Crime Stoppers is confidential, so you can report and help keep your community safe without fear of anyone finding out,” he said.
In an emergency, people should call 000.