By Mitchell Clarke
Victoria Police have vowed to be “relentless” as they activate a specifically designed operation targeting reckless behaviour, which currently acts as the primary cause of fires.
Officers are preparing to launch Operation Safeguard, which has replaced Operation Firesetter, in aiming to reduce the occurrence and impact of intentional and reckless fires.
Leaving campfires unattended or operating machinery on total fire ban days might not seem like a crime, but according to Victoria Police, the majority of fires are caused through reckless actions.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Grainger said police would adopt a “hard-line approach” to any deliberately or recklessly caused bushfires.
“This careless behaviour has the same potential consequences as that caused by arson, easily leading to the destruction of life and property,” AC Grainger said.
“We will be relentless in gathering intelligence and investigating any fire deemed suspicious.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility to be mindful of their activities during fire danger periods, otherwise your actions could result in the cause of a bushfire.”
AC Grainger said it was important for the community and emergency services personnel to help detect and prevent fires.
“Rest assured that information provided by the community is our most valuable tool,” he said.
“The information provided by members of the public is a contemporary and real-time source of intelligence that police use on a daily basis.”
A penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment stands for anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire.
Lighting a fire during a total fire ban can attract a fine of up to $37,000 or up to two years in jail.
