Police want information on suspicious East Cannington blaze

AFTER a fire burned throughout the night at a property in East Cannington, WA Police confirmed arson was suspected in the blaze.

The fire destroyed two hectares of property in the northern pocket of the suburb bordered by Station, Elizabeth, Gerard and Campbell streets and was reported at 9:51am on January 4.

It was extinguished overnight, with an all-clear given on the morning of January 5.

The fire came just one month after the City of Canning had inspected the property, which was deemed to meet the requirements under the Annual Fire Hazard Reduction Notice by a City ranger and community safety officers.

The arson squad’s Strike Force Vulcan has appealed to the public for information about the events leading up to the fire, which damaged sheds, stables and fences in the area, but no people.

“The fire is being treated as suspicious and Strike Force Vulcan officers would like to speak to anyone who was in the area around the time of the fire who may have seen any suspicious person, vehicles or activity,” a spokesman from WA Police said.

City of Canning Mayor Paul Ng took the opportunity to remind residents and ratepayers to prepare their homes in case of a scrub or bush fire.

“We want to make sure that everyone remains safe this bushfire season and are equipped with the information they need to know to prepare, act and survive,” he said.

“It’s important to know your bushfire risk, act on the fire danger ratings and put your preparations into action to survive if a fire starts.”

Each year the City releases an Annual Fire Hazard Reduction Notice with tips to help homeowners prepare.

“It’s important to make sure you clear and maintain your land free of all flammable matter at all times throughout the year,” Cr Ng said.

“The speed with which the fire was contained demonstrates that the Annual Fire Hazard Reduction Notice and inspections work and help to keep the community safe from bushfire,” Cr Ng said.

For more information about fire and fire prevention information contact 1300 422 664 or visit www.canning.wa.gov.au/F/fire-and-fire-prevention or find out if you are bushfire ready by visiting www.areyouready.wa.gov.au

Anyone with any information regarding these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Rewards of up to $50,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.