Police have condemned the actions of those responsible for vandalizing a crucial fire danger warning sign in northern Victoria, labeling the act as both “reckless and dangerous” during an ongoing bushfire crisis.

The incident occurred in Koonoomoo, where unidentified individuals dismantled the automated warning sign situated at the intersection of Goulburn Valley Highway and Greens Lane. The theft took place between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. yesterday.

In addition to cutting down the sign, the perpetrators made off with its solar battery, leaving behind significant damage.

Valued at approximately $60,000, the sign plays a vital role in informing the community about local fire safety danger ratings, which are essential for public safety.

At the time of the theft, the fire safety rating for Koonoomoo and its surrounding areas was set to high, and other regions across the state were under total fire bans.

Multiple bushfires are burning out of control in Victoria today.

Detective Acting Sergeant Leah Booth said the thieves’ actions had placed the whole community in potential danger.

“To damage a sign that alerts the community to the fire danger rating is completely reckless and dangerous,” she said.

“These signs are in place to make sure people who are in the area are aware of the fire danger safety rating to abide by the restrictions and act if needed.

“You are not only cutting down and damaging a sign, but you are also potentially putting the wider community at risk.”