Please see the attached media release regarding the start of the Fire Danger Period (FDP) at 1.00am on Monday, 18 November for the following municipalities in CFA's West region:
• Ararat Rural City Council • Pyrenees Shire Council
Following a drier-than-average autumn and winter, several areas in Victoria are facing an increased fire risk this summer due to a build-up of dead and dry vegetation, particularly in forested regions.
While CFA's 52,000 members are well equipped to support communities, it's important for the community to understand that fire safety is a shared responsibility between fire services and the public.
CFA District 16 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Alcock said it's vital for everyone to be vigilant.
"Across much of our region, the lack of consistent rainfall has left large areas of grass and vegetation highly flammable," he said.
"The community needs to be aware of the heightened danger and take proactive steps to ensure their properties and families are prepared.
"The soil is very dry, and grass is curing faster than last year. We expect grasslands to fully dry within three weeks, increasing the fire risk in the region."
Further Fire Danger Periods will be announced for other Victorian municipalities in the coming weeks and months based on rainfall, grassland curing rates, and local conditions.
Residents are urged to use the time before the FDP begins to clean up their properties. Landowners are encouraged to conduct safe private burn-offs where possible, ensuring they notify authorities in advance and abide by local council bylaws.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.
By registering your burn-off online, you allow emergency call takers to allocate more of their time taking calls from people who need emergency assistance immediately.
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.
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.
- Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms.
