CFA is reminding Victorians not to become complacent with warmer temperatures expected over the holiday period and the first Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the fire season ending on Easter Monday in the far north west of the state.
The FDP will finish at 1.00am on Monday, 1 April in the following municipalities in CFA’s District 18:
- Mildura Rural City
- Buloke Shire
- Swan Hill Rural City
While restrictions are lifting in these areas, CFA still expects the grassfire risk to remain across the state over the next month so Victorians need to remain alert and prepared.
CFA District 18 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Gavin Wright said conditions across the Mallee are mild with ideal conditions prevailing for farmers to undertake agricultural burns to prepare paddocks for sowing.
“Conditions remain dry so landowners will need to be vigilant when undertaking burning activity and ensure the area around the burn is clear of fuel,” Gavin said.
“It is vital wind conditions are monitored and burns are only lit on still days, including the days following as fires can break out several days after the burn has been conducted.”
Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said we’re urging everyone to stay safe, whether you’re living in or travelling to high bushfire risk areas, particularly over the Easter holidays.
“Please monitor the conditions on hot, dry and windy days, as we may still see some days of elevated fire risk,” Jason said.
The end of the Fire Danger Period (FDP) will be an opportunity for some landowners to burn-off again, however it’s important that residents check that local conditions are safe before undertaking these activities.
“You must register your burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulations,” Jason said.
“Registering your burn-off ensures that if smoke or fire is reported, the incident is cross-checked with our register, which prevents firefighters from unnecessarily responding.”
“When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.
Landowners are encouraged to register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or call 1800 668 511.
If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.
Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s website.
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.
- Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s website.