The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Monday, 19 December 2022 for the following municipalities in CFA's North East Region:
- Mitchell Shire Council
- Murrindindi Shire Council
FDP restrictions already apply across parts of Victoria and CFA will be introducing further FDPs for municipalities in the coming weeks based on assessments of the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and local conditions.
The return of a La Nina weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the state, particularly in October, however that doesn't mean communities can become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season.
The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities.
Based on the latest outlook, the fire season is expected to be normal in Victoria, except for parts of central, north east and eastern Victoria where the potential is below normal.
CFA District 12 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Rob van Dorsser said grass and fine fuels are starting to dry off very quickly across the region, which means there is an increased risk of fast-moving grassfires, should one start.
"Widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high fuel loads across the region and we can expect to see significant grassfires to start the fire season," he said.
"The combination of drying fuels and the amount of grass that we're seeing in paddocks makes it a high risk for the area.
"The community should be reminded that the fire season has arrived in our area and to take caution when dealing with fire and items that can cause a fire."
While CFA firefighters are preparing for the bushfire season, they are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
Residents in Mitchell and Murrindindi local government areas should take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property.
If you are using fire to clean up your property ahead of the FDP, you should notify authorities of the burn-off at the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au, or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511. No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.
