Small sparks result in big consequences

Some of the most problematic bushfires this season will be caused by ordinary people going about their business – according to detectives from the Victoria Police Arson and Explosives squad.

Activities such as angle-grinding, operating farming machinery, disposing of cigarette butts, and leaving campfires unattended have the potential to become out of control fires that destroy lives and communities.

Detective Inspector Michael Roberts said many people don’t realise that during high fire danger periods these activities could easily spark a fire.

Last year, police charged 39 people for deliberately lighting a bushfire – a number which has been increasing over the past three years. Seven people were also charged for recklessly causing a bushfire.

“It’s a combination of better police investigation and a zero tolerance approach,”Det Insp Roberts said.

“The charge for recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire is up to 15 years imprisonment, while lighting a fire on a total fire ban day carries a penalty of $35,000 and up to two years jail.”

Police have reactivated Operation Firesetter – a detection and prevention operation focused on highrisk bushfire arson locations and times.

“We’ll be monitoring persons of interest with the aim to reduce the occurrence and impact of suspicious activity during the high-risk period,” Detective Inspector Roberts said. “But we’re asking the community for help. “People who commit bushfire arson are not always strangers, they often live and work in local communities.

“If you see smoke or fire, call Triple Zero (‘000’). If you see something suspicious or know something, report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”