As Southern Region heads into a heat wave, Police warn residents and travellers to avoid travelling, carry plenty of water and stay with their vehicle if it breaks down.
A seven day weather forecast has predicted temperatures to climb into the high 40s at Charleville this week, with Thargomindah, 400 kilometres from Charleville, already reaching 45°C today.
Charleville Police District Inspector Mick Dowie said there were several fires burning across the district with some cattle stations facing the prospect of losing infrastructure such as fences, sheds, water tanks and feed sheds.
“The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) and property owners have been doing a fantastic job in containing the fires at the moment,” Inspector Dowie said.
“The QFRS has also deployed two water bombing aircraft and a fire spotter to the Warrego and Channel Country District to assist ground crews and provide support with property protection, should they be required.
“We are facing high temperatures tomorrow and together with low humidity and 17 kilometre per hour winds, the fire danger rating is expected to reach severe over the coming days.
“We cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid all areas of bushfires and use your common sense. Out here, some fire fronts are 20 kilometres wide and before you know it you can be in the middle of a bushfire.”
Birdsville Police Station Officer Senior Constable Neale McShane echoes the above warnings and said people travelling in the southern part of theMountIsadistrict need to take precautions.
“Motorists should notify friends and family of their travel plans so if they don’t make it an alarm can be raised,” Senior Constable McShane said.
Senior Constable McShane said it was also important for people to carry food and water and to stay with their vehicle if they break down.
“People who wander off to seek help run the risk of perishing in these extreme conditions if they do not have the adequate supplies or knowledge on how to stay safe,” Senior Constable McShane said.
Visit http://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au for the latest warnings and bushfire safety tips.
fire at Norely Cattle Station last night.
Hard to Hide: Birdsville Station Officer in Charge Senior Constable Neale McShane stands in 45 degree Celsius heat
