Roads open but vigilance urged as threat lingers

FIRE crews have capitalised on favourable weather conditions across the state to make headway on several fires.

Tanker-based crews attacked edges of the Gell River Fire, while some back-burning was successfully conducted on the northern edge of the Riveaux Rd fire near Denison Rd.

Tasmania Fire Service station officer Darren Gye said back-burning in some parts was too difficult yesterday because of damp conditions, and would be undertaken today if the conditions allowed.

Mr Gye said remote area teams continued fire contain- ment on the northern parts of the Great Pine Tier fire.

The Huon Highway south of Huonville reopened to all travellers yesterday after being declared safe.

Restrictions have been lifted on Glen Huon Rd, but several smaller roads leading to burnt areas remain closed.

Tasmania Police warned further road closures may occur, with the bushfire threat not yet over.

Temporary speed limit changes are likely to remain in place in some areas.

“We cannot say that any road is 100 per cent safe, even when these roads have been opened to the general public,” regional controller Tony Cer- ritelli said. Potential safety risks include fire, electrical or infrastructure damage, trees with potential to fall, burnt and partially burnt trees and obstructions, or dangerous conditions from smoke, debris or escaped animals.

Police yesterday reopened the Highland Lakes Rd on the Central Plateau after it was closed because of bushfires.

The key north-south link through the Central Plateau, which was in the path of the Great Pine Tier fire, has been declared safe by police. However, police advised motorists to remain vigilant and mindful of temporary speed limit changes because of emergency services activity.