Help stop bushfire arson

Posted on 23/12/2024

As South Australians navigate another Fire Danger Season, Crime Stoppers South Australia is calling on the community to play an active role in preventing and reporting bushfire arson. From December 2024 through to March 2025, our campaign will run across the state to raise awareness and encourage vigilance, with the aim of protecting lives, property and the environment.

A real threat to South Australians

Bushfire arson remains a significant risk to communities, particularly in high-risk regions like the Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island. As recent arrests and watchlists indicate, some individuals deliberately ignite fires, placing countless lives in danger and causing untold devastation.

The 2024/25 season is predicted to bring above-average fire risks due to hot, dry conditions and lower-than-average rainfall, increasing the flammability of vegetation. This makes early reporting of suspicious activity more important than ever.

How you can help

By staying alert and reporting suspicious behaviour, you can help prevent bushfires and support South Australian Police (SAPOL), the Metropolitan Fire Service, the Country Fire Service (CFS), and Crime Stoppers to proactively address bushfire risks.

Here’s what to look out for:

• Unusual behaviour: someone acting suspiciously or appearing out of place in bushfire-prone areas.
• Vehicles parked oddly: cars or motorcycles parked near bushland in unusual locations. Take note of details like the make, model, colour, and license plate.
• Practice fires: burnt patches or signs of small fires that could be used as “practice runs.”

Reporting Is easy

• For fires already burning, contact 000
• For immediate police response, call 131 444.
• If you have information about suspicious activity or known arsonists, you can anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via our website.

Why it matters

A single act of vigilance can prevent a disaster. Reporting what you see or hear—even anonymously—can save lives, protect communities, and preserve South Australia’s natural landscape.

Together, we can make a difference

With the bushfire season upon us, now is the time to stay alert, act responsibly and report suspicious activity. By working together, we can stop bushfire arson before it starts, safeguarding our families, communities and natural surroundings.

Your actions can save lives. Help prevent bushfires this summer.

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