Fire-starters who flaunt restrictions will not be tolerated by Mildura authorities.

Victoria Police, the Country Fire Authority and the Department of Sustainability and municipalities across Loddon Mallee region now have a zero tolerance policy to people who light fires against the law.

People face fines of $12,000 and two years’ imprisonment for lighting a fire on a day of total fire ban – even if it is a fire for personal warmth.

Fire services who suspect illegal fires will alert police to attend and investigate any alleged offence under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958.

Inspector Simon Clemence of Mildura Police said police would not hesitate to prosecute people without a reasonable excuse.

“Not knowing what you should or should not do is not a reasonable excuse – it is your responsibility to find out,” he said.

“The public will be notified via the media on days of specific fire risk such as severe, extreme or code red days.

“Various penalties apply for lighting fires or failing to comply with restrictions and the fines can be extreme.”

Insp Clemence said there was a cost to the community every time the CFA responded to a fire.

“This cost comes in the form of disruption to volunteers and their businesses and family life, disruption and lost productivity for employers of volunteers, vehicle wear and tear, and unnecessary administration related to the responses,” he said.

“Community costs from illegal fires can be significant, especially if fires get out of control and endanger people or property.”

Insp Clemence urged residents to remember one thing: “I didn’t know” is not a reasonable excuse.

Camp, barbecue, fire and gas restrictions can be found online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or through the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.

Mildura Rural City Council provides advice on the CFA’s restrictions. Copies are also available from Mildura Police Station.

Fire restrictions run until March 1.

This article appeared in Thursday’s Sunraysia Daily 09/02/2012.