The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will finish in parts of CFA’s District 23 over the coming weeks.
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will finish at 1.00am on Monday, 28 March in the following municipalities in CFA’s District 23:
- Benalla Rural City Council
- Mansfield Shire Council
- Mount Buller and Mount Stirling Resort Management Board
- Wangaratta Rural City Council
According to the latest Australian Seasonal Outlook, higher rainfall totals have resulted in below average fire conditions, with reduced fire activity in both grasslands and forests this summer.
Much of Victoria will continue to experience average rainfall over the coming months, however temperatures are predicted to be warmer than normal, particularly in the western parts of the state.
CFA District 23 Commander Paul Scragg said there is still a significant amount of dry fuel in the area and with the current warm weather there is potential for fires to easily get away.
“People that are having a fire or conducting a burn off should be aware that you are responsible for that fire if it gets away,” he said.
Commander Scragg emphasised that while the FDP is coming to an end in some areas, it is still important to remain vigilant.
“We’re urging everyone to stay safe, whether you’re living in or travelling to high bushfire risk you areas,” he said.
“Please monitor the conditions on hot, dry and windy days, as we may still see some days of elevated fire risk.”
While the Fire Danger Period will come to an end, it is still important that residents check the local conditions are safe for any burn-off they were considering undertaking.
“You must register your burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulations,” Commander Scragg said.
“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 volunteer firefighters being taken away from workplaces, families and potentially genuine emergencies.”
Landowners can now register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
Alternatively, you can register with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au
“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 at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
- Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind.
- To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand.
- Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn.
- Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading.
- Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration.
- If your burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately.