Crime Stoppers Victoria is partnering with Victoria Police to remind people to consider the consequences of their actions in a bid to prevent potential bushfires this summer.
The new ‘You Light It, You Own It’ campaign reminds Victorians to exercise caution to avoid starting reckless or accidental fires.
This campaign follows the recent launch of Operation Safeguard — the annual police operation that aims to deter or reduce the impact of fires across Victoria.
Advice from the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council states Australians are being urged to prepare for a bushfire season similar to the 2019-20 Black Summer fire season.
This follows a forecast of above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall for large parts of Australia.
“We want Victorians to stop and think before their actions cause a fire this summer,” Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said.
“Bushfires can start from actions as simple as lighting a campfire or using farm machinery and power tools on a hot and windy day.
“No one wants to be responsible for risking lives from an out-of-control fire, so we want to encourage people to make the right decisions.”
Crime Statistics Agency data shows in the year ending June 2023, there were 29 offences recorded in Victoria for causing a bushfire.
Ms Smith said the ‘You Light It, You Own It’ campaign was a reminder to stop and think about the consequences of starting a catastrophic fire.
“The forecast is for a hot summer and we want the community’s help to stop bushfires before they start,” she said.
Victorians are urged to share what they know about suspicious and reckless fire activity with Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au
In an emergency, or if you see smoke or flames, please call 000.
For information on Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/