It has been a long and challenging fire season and as we head into autumn, there is still heightened fire risk, with dry weather expected for many more months.
As fire restrictions begin to lift, CFA is urging residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer for North West Region Trevor Weston said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors in some areas.
“This year's fire season has been arduous, but the risk is easing in these municipalities, and we need to give our primary producers time to prepare the ground for the growing season ahead," Trevor said.
“Nights are becoming increasingly cool, and we are seeing dew in the mornings that further reduces our fire risk and potential.
“We have also seen some rain start to hit the region.”
Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the Fire Danger Periods that are in place in the region they are residing.
With the end of the FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it’s essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.
To prevent unnecessary emergency callouts, landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response.
Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.