The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is urging residents, including those in Hume and Whittlesea, to monitor local conditions and be cautious if they plan on burning off.
Most parts of Victoria can expect sunny days this long weekend, but those conducting private burn-offs can expect moderate north to northwesterly winds and gusty conditions in various parts, CFA said.
CFA deputy chief officer Trevor Owen said CFA has already responded to a number of out-of-control burn-offs across the state this season and they don’t want that to spike this weekend.
“We’re encouraging all residents in high-fire risk areas to prepare their property ahead of fire season, but we also ask that they plan according to the conditions and do it safely when burning off,” he said.
“Assess your local conditions and if it’s not safe to conduct a burn, consider postponing it until conditions are safer.
“Conditions can change, and fires can get out of control quickly in gusty conditions.”
If conditions are not suitable to burn-off in your area this weekend, residents can consider the many other ways to prepare their property.
“There are simple tasks people can undertake on their property to reduce their risk this season, and this weekend is a great time to start completing some of these activities,” Mr Owen said.
“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.
“If you’re enjoying the great outdoors this weekend and plan to use fire for warmth or cooking, it’s important to ensure your campfire is fully extinguished before leaving.”
CFA encourages all households and families to create or practice their bushfire survival plan now, ahead of the fire season.
“Practicing your bushfire survival plan could save your family’s life,” Mr Owen said.
Details: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/prepare
