Woman Arrested After Discarded Cigarette Allegedly Ignites Hunter Scrub Fire
A 34-year-old woman has been arrested and charged after a discarded cigarette allegedly sparked a scrub fire in the Hunter region early on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred along the New England Highway at Scone, prompting a swift emergency response.
Emergency Response to Early Morning Blaze
Emergency services were called to the New England Highway at Scone shortly before 5am on Tuesday, January 27, following reports of a blaze. Upon arrival, police discovered a scrub fire that was subsequently extinguished by crews from both the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW.
The fire was brought under control by approximately 5.30am, according to updates from the Fires Near Me service. The quick action of firefighting teams prevented the blaze from spreading further in the Upper Hunter area.
Arrest and Charges Following the Incident
Police arrested a woman walking south along the highway near the fire scene a short time after the blaze was reported. The 34-year-old was taken to Muswellbrook Police Station where she faced two charges:
- Discarding a lit cigarette on land
- Leaving a fire lit in the open air without extinguishing it
The woman was released on bail with conditions and ordered to appear at Muswellbrook Local Court next month. The arrest highlights the serious consequences of careless behavior during fire-prone conditions.
Ongoing Concerns About Fire Safety
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fire risks associated with discarded cigarettes, particularly during warmer months when vegetation is dry. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of proper cigarette disposal and fire safety awareness in regional areas.
The Hunter region has experienced several scrub fires in recent years, with authorities regularly warning residents about the dangers of careless behavior that could ignite vegetation. This latest incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and responsible actions to prevent similar occurrences.
