CrimeStoppers fire safety message gets helping hand from Nido to reach Bendigo refugees

A CrimeStoppers campaign raising awareness around arson and the penalties for deliberately or recklessly lighting a bushfire has reached into the refugee communities of Bendigo thanks to our Community Guide Nido.

Nido was part of the CrimeStoppers You Don't Need A Match To Be An Arsonist campaign in Bendigo which delivered important messages around the zero-tolerance approach taken by Victoria Police and the CFA around illegal fires that are deliberately or recklessly lit.

The campaign encourages people to stay alert and report any risky or suspicious behaviour they see in the community.

You Don't Need A Match To Be An Arsonist highlights that you can be charged with arson if your fire pit or barbecue sparks a bushfire.

Penalties for recklessly or deliberately causing a bushfire can include 15 years in jail while lighting a fire on a day of Total Fire Ban can lead to a fine of up to $37,000.

Nido played a role in the Bendigo campaign launch by translating the messages for the Karen community.

"We value our community and understand how important it is to do the right thing," Nido told the Bendigo Advertiser. "The bushfires have been shocking for everyone and I know that Bendigo is in a fire danger period, so it's extra important to be careful."

Nido has helped Bendigo Community Health Services produce translated and easy to understand fire information sheets this summer through a new project with the City of Greater Bendigo and CFA community educators.

PDF versions of the translated fire information sheets for you to download:

Fire safety information sheet Karen

Fire safety information sheet Dari

What to do if you see suspicious behavior

If you see suspicious behaviour currently happening then call Police on 131 444.

If you see a fire burning or smoke then call 000 for fire services

If you have information about someone who is deliberately lighting fires then call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au

Last updated: February 2020.