General News
6 February, 2025
Two CFA units attend bark chip fire: cigarettes found near by
Two CFA units from Horsham attended the scene of bark fire
Emergency services were called to a fire on Alexander Ave in Horsham on Wednesday, February 5.
A CFA spokesperson said, "CFA responded to reports of bark chips on fire at around 7.05pm on Alexander Ave in Horsham.
"Two CFA units from Horsham attended the scene.
"Upon arrival, crews found a small patch of bark chips on fire next to a bowl of cigarette butts and quickly extinguished the small fire.
"The incident was deemed safe at 7.27 pm."
This followed several similar fires.
On January 13, Horsham CFA responded to a bin fire.
A cigarette lighted contents of a bin, a CFA spokesperson
A further fire required two CFA units to attend after reports were made of a bark fire at the intersection between Roberts Avenue and Darlot Street.
CFA warnings for cigarettes butts
With fires burning in the Grampians and Little Desert national parks almost constantly since late January, the CFA continues to urge the public to be aware and be vigilant with campfires and anything that could start a fire, especially in the current dry conditions.
This includes cigarette butts that are still alight or smouldering.
The CFA warns that a lit cigarette can smoulder for 20 to 30 minutes before igniting anything.
While most reported cigarette fires involve dropping a hot cigarette on bedding or upholstered furniture or clothing, dry grass and material can be ignited easily.
If discarding a cigarette outside, ensure it has been fully extinguished and is not near any material that could catch alight.