Possible Arson Event Requires Vigilence

NEW ZEALAND – A call for increased farmer vigilance has been sounded by Federated Farmers of New Zealand (FFNZ) in the midst of a suspected South Island arson event.
calendar icon 25 February 2014
clock icon 1 minute read

FFNZ said the perpetrators, if indeed the mid-Canterbury blaze was arson, should feel the full force of the law for a ‘reckless’ and ‘dangerous’ act.

Farmers can lower the chances of arson by leaving bales away from roads and access points, FFNZ has advised.

“At least that will make it more difficult for an arsonist to do damage,” said FFNZ mid-Canterbury grain and see chairperson David Clark.

“Not only is it wanton destruction of feed and shelter that our animals will need, but someone could die as a consequence,” he added.

“If there is a road accident or a house fire, then our rural fire fighters will be in the wrong place needlessly fighting deliberately lit fires.”

Night time in particular has been highlighted for potential arsonists. Farmers have been reminded that burning stubble and agricultural residues at night contravenes the code of conduct farmers have with Ashburton District Council.

“If this is arson, we do not understand how someone could derive pleasure from such a reckless and dangerous act. If you know or suspect someone is a firebug, then please let the Police know because they are putting lives at risk.

“In the meantime, farmers need to be the eyes and ears of the emergency services,” Mr Clark concluded.

TheCattleSite News Desk

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