THE declared Fire Danger Period will begin at 1am on Monday across the Shire of Gannawarra.
Country Fire Authority District 20 Operations Manager Peter Taylor said forecasts show potential for an extreme grass fire risk this season, despite the recent heavy rain and flooding in many parts of the State.
“The rainfall we experienced in Spring has produced a lot of growth, which could very easily become a high fuel load throughout the Summer season 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 does everything it can, we look to the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.”
Mr Taylor said there was still a short window of opportunity to clean up your property if you haven’t already done so.
“Out of control burn-offs and unregistered burn-offs have been a major headache for brigades,” he said.
“You should avoid burning off when high winds are forecast – not only on the day of your burn but for the days afterwards.
“For information about burn-off restrictions specific to your area consult your local council.”
As the Summer season approaches, so does the dryland harvest season.
“Current legislation requires that all farm machinery is fitted with a defect-free exhaust muffler, spark arrestor and a 9-litre extinguisher or knapsack,” he said.
“It is important that farmers carry this equipment with them at all times. These items may be the difference between a small incident and a major catastrophe.”
Mr Taylor said that the CFA would be taking a zero-tolerance approach to any fires resulting from negligent behaviour this fire season.
“Expect any fire you start to be fully investigated by CFA and police,” he said.
During the Fire Danger Period (FDP) fires cannot be lit in the open air.
Victorians can find out “Can I or Can’t I?” information at cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. All burn-offs should be registered with the VicFire Burn-off notification line on 1800 668 511.
Fire Danger Period information:
Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $21,600 and/or 12 months imprisonment. Barbecues and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces (to view complete conditions visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can)
The use of an incinerator, chainsaw/lawn mower, welding/grinding equipment and vehicles that come in contact with vegetation and machinery with an internal combustion/heat engine are permitted provided conditions are followed.
Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farming – this information is important especially for new farmers, bush block owners or hobby farmers.
A Total Fire Ban declaration means no fires can be lit for the declared district for that day unless there is a specific exemption or special permit issued. This applies irrespective of the Fire Restriction status for a given municipality. Further details at cfa.vic.gov.au/can
