ALERT: Local fire ban declared for Gold Coast

A LOCAL fire ban is currently in place across southeast Queensland, including the Gold Coast, as the bushfire risk soars.

The ban kicked in at midnight on Wednesday and is expected to remain in place until 11.59pm on Monday.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has warned that the Ipswich, Somerset, Lockyer, Logan, Scenic Rim and Gold Coast Local Government Areas are all facing increased fire risks.

“A large part of the state is expected to reach a very high fire danger rating over the coming days, with some areas climbing to severe,” QFES Commissioner Katarina Carroll said.

“These are perfect conditions for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly.

“Queensland is now in the grips of bushfire season and fires can start anywhere and at any time, so we need the community to be prepared for the weeks and months ahead.”

Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire which have been issued in the designated areas are cancelled.

Ms Carroll said some types of fires were permitted during a local fire ban, providing conditions were followed.

“Fires lit for the purpose of burning standing sugar cane for harvest are permitted in accordance with the established practice of the industry,” Ms Carroll said.

“Fires within a properly constructed gas or electric barbeque are also permitted but they cannot be left unattended.

“Power tools may be used during a total fire ban, however QFES encourages people to use these with extreme care and ensure adequate equipment is available to extinguish any fire which may start.”