NSW: More than 150 properties lost as fires continue

AAP General News (Australia)
12-27-2001
NSW: More than 150 properties lost as fires continue

Australia's largest city remains ringed by fire as the New South Wales government says
it will crack down on arsonists believed to be behind the devastation.

More than 100 fires continue to burn out of control, with more than 150 properties
already reduced to ashes.

Many residents were forced to flee their homes in the middle of the night as winds
played havoc with the direction of the fires.

As conditions worsen the state government is considering offers of help from South
Australia and Queensland.

Emergency Services Minister BOB DEBUS says attempts to contain fires through hazard
reduction burns have been abandoned in many areas as weather conditions deteriorate.

The New South Wales government has set up a police taskforce to investigate reports
of arson behind many of the fires.

Acting Premier ANDREW REFSHAUGE says arson is an atrocious thing and the idea that
somebody should deliberately light a fire is almost beyond comprehension.

Dr REFSHAUGE says arsonists will face the strongest penalties available.

AAP RTV ls/arb/jas

KEYWORD: BUSHFIRES NSW (SYDNEY)

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