Total fire ban declared for Rockingham, Mandurah and surrounds

A total fire ban has been declared for a large portion of the state today, December 8.

It's due to extreme temperatures and windy conditions which could lead to a bush or grass fire.

A total fire ban means it is illegal to light a campfire, burn leaves, garden waste or grass cutting, use a fire pit or incinerator or use a barbecue or cooker that uses solid fuel such as wood or charcoal. 

Hot work such as metal work, grinding, welding, gas cutting is not allowed in the open air except for business and industry if regulatory conditions are met and off-road activity using a four-wheel drive, quad bike, motorcycle, bobcat or similar vehicle is prohibited.

Areas included in the ban includes the City's of Mandurah, Rockingham and Kwinana and the Shire's of Murray and Serpentine-Jarrahdale.

A harvest and vehicle movement ban is also in place for several local government areas.

The operation of any vehicle, engine, plant, equipment or machinery is prohibited in areas likely to cause a bushfire including off-road areas and paddocks.

People who breach a total fire ban could receive an infringement of $1000 by police, local government or DFES.

If convicted, people can be fined $25,000 and/or be jailed for 12 months.