The ACT Rural Fire Service has condemned vandals, after a spate of incidents last weekend left fire danger rating signs destroyed, with possible ramifications for public safety.
The ACT RFS and police are investigating damage caused to signs in at least two sites across Canberra.
One sign near the corner of Sutton and Kowen roads, east of Fyshwick, is now "completely unserviceable" after cabling was ripped out, while another at Majura Parkway had some cables disconnected. That sign was restored on Wednesday.
Fire chief Rohan Scott said the signs were quite expensive, and a technician would be needed to determine how much damage was done.
"The padlock to secure all electronics inside a box had been destroyed," Mr Scott said.
"These signs are used for messaging to the public, and they're currently being used to remind people that working smoke alarms save lives, so there are indirect messages outside of the bushfire season.
"The police have been alerted. Whoever the people were left a jacket behind. It's a nuisance."
The signs are also used for other fire safety messages, including how to prevent heater and dryer-related fires during winter.
In early June, the ACT government launched the winter home fire safety campaign as the capital braced for the cold season.
Mr Scott said damage to signs had happened in the past, including one incident of a sign being shot.
"It's just disappointing because these signs are used to capture messaging for the community," he said.
"There's always someone out there not playing nice, affecting the greater community and potentially their own family."
An ACT Policing spokesperson said police had received a report from the ACT ESA regarding the damages.
"Property damage is a criminal offence and senseless destruction like this can have a significant community cost," the spokesperson said.
Anyone with information regarding the incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
