SA to target 88 firebugs this summer

Almost 90 people considered at risk of sparking fires this summer will be monitored as South Australia's new bushfire season begins.

Police say the 88 people include some currently in jail who are due to be released in coming months.

"We're ensuring as many eyes as possible are watching firebugs over summer," Emergency Services Minister Vincent Tarzia said.

"People who intentionally light fires are scumbags.

"We know how devastating bushfires can be in South Australia and must do everything in our power to keep the community safe."

SA's fire season kicks off on Wednesday bringing with it strict rules relating to the use of some everyday items such as barbeques, power tools and even pizza ovens, especially on total fire ban days.

Last season 11 people were arrested for Nomad-related fire offences while a further 14 people were reported and 33 fines were issued.

Operation Nomad will monitor deliberate, reckless and negligent acts that may cause a bushfire.

Police and State Emergency Service patrols are deployed on total fire ban days throughout the season.

Assistant Commissioner Noel Bamford said the operation would focus on known arsonists within the community, but would also work to prevent those bushfires which were started accidentally.

"Many fires which started last year were not criminally motivated and classified as non-suspicious," he said.

"This can be anything from the use of power tools or farming equipment when restrictions are in place, to parking a hot car on long grass during summer."

Country Fire Service Duty Commander Brett Loughlin said while SA's bushfire risk was not as high as in previous years, there would be fires this summer.

"Even short periods of hot and windy weather will raise the fire risk especially in areas that have seen a lot of vegetation growth during spring," he said.

"It takes the slightest spark to start a catastrophic bushfire."