Community
21 November, 2024
CFA announces the Fire Danger Period
THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 1am on Monday, 25 November for the Corangamite and Moyne shires.
After a drier-than-average autumn and winter, Victoria’s west and south west are facing an increased fire risk leading into summer, with substantial amounts of dead and dry plant material in forests making it easier for fires to ignite and spread.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) deputy chief officer south west region Adrian Gutsche said with an increased fire risk expected in the southwest of the state, now is the time for residents to take action and be prepared.
“While we’ve had some recent rain, we are concerned this has caused additional growth in surrounding vegetation, and will soon dry out, adding to the underlying fire risk,” he said.
“We’re asking people to keep an eye out on the VicEmergency App and CFA website, to be aware of the fire danger ratings and to know what their plan is should a fire event arise.
“If you can take the time this week to finalise preparing your properties, we strongly suggest you do so, whether that is reducing vegetation around your property or clearing your gutters.”
Across the rest of the state, a warmer-than-average spring with an uncertain rainfall outlook is expected.
While the fire risk in these areas is considered normal, it’s crucial not to be complacent; fires can still occur anytime and anywhere when temperatures rise and vegetation dries out.
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 are asked to take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up their properties and for landowners to conduct safe private burn offs where possible.
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.