Fire restrictions for another five Victorian areas
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Monday, 6 November for the following municipalities in CFA's District 17 and 18.
- Swan Hill Rural City Council
- Yarriambiack Shire Council *both D17 & D18 portions
- Hindmarsh Shire Council
- Horsham Rural City Council
- West Wimmera Shire Council * those parts on and north of the Wimmera Highway and including all of the townships of Edenhope & Apsley
The El Nino weather pattern means Victorians can expect a hotter and drier summer than recent years, and communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a Bushfire Survival Plan.
The latest Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring predicts the fire risk in the coming months to be normal across the state, as well as strong drying patterns in Gippsland's forested areas.
CFA District 17 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Mark Gunning said abundant fuel across the Wimmera from another good Spring was starting to dry rapidly.
"Unlike the last two years we will get dry windy weather, so people need to make sure they've got all their plans in place and all their readiness work done." he said
While CFA's 52,000 members are poised to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they're urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
Residents in these areas are asked to take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up their properties.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling ESTA 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.
