Get ahead of the Fire Danger Period, CFA warns

CFA District 20 acting operations manager Mick Lavery said winter rains had resulted in plenty of vegetation growth across Campaspe Shire.

“This will become a high fire risk throughout the summer if not properly managed,” he said.

“Reducing fuel loads will ensure that if a fire does break out, it has less chance of taking hold or spreading.

“While CFA and its partner agencies Parks Victoria, Forest Fire Management, DELWP and Emergency Management Victoria are doing everything we can to prepare for the bushfire season, we look to the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.”

Mr Lavery said residents still had a few weeks of opportunity to clean up their properties.

“People need to be aware that if using fire to clean up around their properties they need to register the details on 1800 668 511,” he said.

"So far this year, out-of-control burn-offs and unregistered burn-offs have already caused unnecessary call-outs for brigades.

“You should not burn off when winds are high, or high winds are forecast — not only on the day of your burn but for the days afterwards."

For information about other restrictions specific to your area, consult your local council.

Mr Lavery said once the danger period came into effect, CFA had a zero-tolerance approach to any fires starting from negligent behaviour.

“Expect any fire you start to be fully investigated by CFA and Victoria Police,” he said.

CFA issues permits for a certain situations during the FDP. There are strict conditions attached to these permits, and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.During the FDP, fires cannot be lit in the open air without a written permit from CFA or a municipal fire prevention officer.

For information, go to cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/restrictions-during-the-fire-danger-period