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Permits, inspections introduced for patio wood heaters

Kate FieldingSouth Western Times

Bunbury City Council has introduced permits to allow the use of solid fuel patio heaters during the restricted fire season in a bid to reduce the risk of fire this summer.

With an increasing number of residents using patio heaters, the council is urging residents to consider whether it is safe to do so. On applying for a permit an inspection will be carried out by the council before approval is granted.

Community safety and emergency management team leader Chris Widmer said people were aware of the risk of fire and it was appropriate to educate the community about potential hazards posed by solid fuel heaters.

“Any fire lit outdoors from November 30 until May 10 is subject to conditions specified within the Bush Fires Act,” Mr Widmer said.

“In recognition of the increasing popularity of patio fires, the city has created a regulation where their safe use can be encouraged.

“It will be a simple and free process to gain a permit and it will give residents peace of mind that they are reducing the fire risk.”

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