By ALESHA CAPONE
AUTHORITIES have warned arsonists to be aware their activities are illegal and dangerous, following a series of fires in Brimbank and Melton.
Detectives are investigating after three blazes began near the Calder Freeway on Friday 24 January during a day of extreme heat.
The fires, at Calder Park, Taylors Lakes and Diggers Rest, all started within 30 minutes of each other, between 10.30am and 11am.
Brimbank police Inspector Chris Gilbert said CFA crews quickly contained the blazes.
He said arson chemists would assist detectives to determine the cause of the fires and any links between them.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) has announced it will join forces with police, the CFA and Parks Victoria this summer to monitor deliberately-lit fires.
DEPI compliance manager, Murray Rohde, said campers sometimes also failed to realise they were not allowed to light fires on high-risk days.
Mr Rhodes said almost 100 fires, which occurred during the last financial year, started out as campfires or barbecues.
Detective Senior Sergeant Jeff Maher said both arson and recklessly lit fires could incur serious penalties.
“Arson can carry penalties of up to 25 years in jail, while being responsible for a recklessly lit fire can see fines of up to $34,000 and 15 years’ imprisonment.” Det Sen Sgt Maher said.
“Under the CFA Act, there are now prescribed high fire danger activities that if done on a severe, extreme or code red day, can lead to legal action.
“Whether on private property or land governed by DEPI, members of the public need to take the appropriate safety precautions when it comes to fire.”
This year’s Crime Stoppers Bushfire Arson Campaign is also calling on the community to take action against arson.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity near or before fires can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
