CFA District 6 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Dean Manson emphasised that while the FDP is coming to an end in some areas, it is still important to remain vigilant.
ACFO Manson stated that a zero-tolerance policy will continue to be enforced for people responsible for illegal fires.
“Residents that wish to conduct burn-offs on their private properties need to follow some basic rules; register your burn-offs first and foremost, check weather conditions including monitoring the wind, and follow local council laws and regulations.”
“Registering your burn-off ensures that if somebody reports smoke, the incident will be cross-checked with the burn-off register, which will then prevent CFA crews wasting resources and showing up on your door.”
As well as registering your burn-offs with ESTA, ACFO Manson also highlighted the need for landowners to alert neighbours to the fact that they may see smoke on the set dates.
“False alarms take crews away from family, friends, work and other potential emergencies.”
Landowners can register their burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au
Whether registering a burn-off by phone or email, people should be prepared to give some basic information including location, date, expected start and finish times, estimated size, and what they intend to burn.
“The burn-off line is very easy to use - the operators are friendly, and prompt you by asking the key questions,” said ACFO Manson.
“When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.”
Keep your burn off safe and legal:
- Check fire restrictions in your area and always register your burn
- Check and monitor weather conditions - particularly wind
- Warn your neighbours beforehand that there will be smoke in the air
- Stay in attendance the whole time your burn is going
- Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading.
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