Officer injured, car burnt out after fire at Townsville jail
A prison officer was taken to hospital after a routine burn-off at the Townsville jail’s low-security farm turned dangerous, with strong winds reigniting a grass fire that destroyed a new work ute.
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A prison officer was taken to hospital after a routine burn-off at Townsville Correctional Centre’s low-security farm turned dangerous, with strong winds reigniting a grass fire that destroyed a new work ute.
The incident occurred last Wednesday, prompting multiple fire crews to respond and help contain a grass fire that had broken out at the low-security section of the prison.
According to a Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) spokesman, the fire began when officers and external contractors were conducting a routine clearing and burn-off activity.
“ … Wind caused a pile that was thought to be extinguished to reignite and start a grass fire,” he said.
During the blaze, a prison officer suffered smoke inhalation, a minor burn to his hand, and an ankle injury while trying to move a new QCS vehicle out of the fire’s path.
Despite his efforts, the vehicle was destroyed by the flames.
The injured officer was transported to the hospital for treatment and was later released.
QCS has firmly denied claims that the fire had been left unattended, but stated that the incident will undergo a review to “ensure any learnings are reflected in our land management processes.”
“During the incident, the vehicle was damaged by fire,” the spokesman confirmed.
“We are not aware of any other property damage at this time.”
“QCS undertakes a range of activities to prepare for bushfire season, including slashing and mowing long grass, controlled backburns and the use of livestock to reduce fuel load across our holdings around the state.”
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Originally published as Officer injured, car burnt out after fire at Townsville jail
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