Mystery blaze at Northview High School
HIGHLANDS NORTH - A short-lived blaze on the grounds of Northview High School had Emergency Services on the scene and local business owners concerned.
Two fire engines were on the scene, and firefighters were dousing the last of the fire’s smoking remains when a North Eastern Tribune reporter arrived at Northview High School, in response to a call from a nearby business owner. It is not clear who called the firefighters, who were not able to comment, but caller Tracy Jacobson says this is not the first conflagration to be lit on the school grounds.
According to Jacobson, she tried repeatedly and without success to speak to the school about the frequent burning of refuse close to the boundary wall, which she says is damaging the equipment at her printing and copying business. This latest blaze, although swiftly brought under control, affected several square metres of grass inside the school premises, as well as vegetation along the school’s boundary wall.
A representative, who wished to remain anonymous, stated the school has had no complaints from local businesses, and staff first became aware of the fire when the fire trucks arrived on the scene.
“It’s illegal to burn refuse,” said the representative in response to inquiries.
“It’s very close to the road. Anybody who flicks a cigarette could cause a fire there,” he added, pointing out that dry weather increases the likelihood of accidental blazes.
