NSW: Motorists urged not to be butt tossers
21 Jan 2009 10:39 AM
SYDNEY, Jan 21 AAP - Fire authorities are urging motorists to use their ashtrays after cigarette butts tossed out of car windows in searing heat caused two Sydney fires.
The roadside blazes at Greystanes and Homebush Bay on Tuesday were quickly contained, but the NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) and Rural Fire Service (RFS) say carelessly flicked butts could create serious bushfire problems.
"These fires caused major traffic delays and posed a great danger to drivers and their passengers, as well as firefighters who put out the fires," Acting NSWFB Commissioner John Benson said in a statement on Wednesday.
"These fires also threatened property. Thankfully no one was injured but in many cases, roadside grass fires can result in significant damage to property and put lives at risk.
"A careless flick of a cigarette is all it takes to spark a serious roadside grass fire, so I appeal to smokers to dispose of cigarettes carefully and avoid becoming an unwitting firebug."
RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said higher temperatures this week would increase bushfire risks.
"With more than a dozen bushfires now burning across the state, it is important that we are all vigilant and take precautions to prevent fires," he said.
"To help prevent a roadside fire, don't throw cigarette butts out the window or onto the roadway. Extinguish and dispose of them carefully.
"If you're driving, use the vehicle's ashtray."
Anyone who sees a fire is urged to ring Triple Zero, while butt tossers can be dobbed in to the Department of Environment and Climate Change on 131 555.
Penalties for throwing cigarette butts during the bushfire season include fines of up to $5,500 and up to 12 months imprisonment.
