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The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Monday, 25 November, for the following municipalities in CFA's west and northwest regions:
- Ballarat City Council
- Hepburn Shire Council
- Moorabool Shire Council
- Golden Plains Shire Council
- Macedon Ranges Shire Council
- Banyule City Council**
- Nillumbik Shire Council**
**those portions not included in the area formerly known as the Metropolitan Fire District as at 30 June 2020
Following a particularly dry autumn and winter, parts of Victoria face an elevated fire risk heading into summer.
CFA District 15 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Lachlan Redman said residents need to prepare responsibly.
"Many of our forested areas and grasslands currently have very high fuel loads. If fires break out, they're likely to burn intensely, so a bit of preparation now can make all the difference," he said.
"Getting your property ready is essential, but please remember to do it safely. We've seen more escaped burn-offs than usual to this stage of the season, which is one of the reasons we're beginning the Fire Danger Period early.
"The risk of fires spreading fast is already here."
With the increased fire risk at the Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Park, we're reminding residents who plan to conduct burn-offs prior to the FDP to register online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling Triple Zero Victoria at 1800 668 511.
Registering your burn-off helps our emergency services prioritise calls from those who need urgent assistance.
Lachlan said during the Fire Danger Period, a Permit to Burn is required, and we urge everyone to use common sense and take responsibility.
"Our members are prepared to respond and support the community this season, but we need everyone's help. Let's work together to keep each other safe as we head into summer," he said.
Fire Danger Period information:
- A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au. It can also be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office.
- Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment. For a full list of conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can.
