The fire danger period is now upon Hume and Whittlesea, as a sizzling summer lies on the cards.
The period began on November 20 for the Hume council area, while Whittlesea’s periods started on Monday, December 4.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) district 14 assistant chief fire officer Tim Holland said residents in these municipalities should take this opportunity ahead of restrictions to reduce the fuel loads around their home.
Amid the El Nino weather pattern, Victorians can expect a hotter, drier summer, and communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a bushfire survival plan.
“Following some of the driest months on record in August and September, the widespread rain that we had at the start of October provided some welcomed relief and slowed the grasslands drying cycle,” he said.
“However, the grass in local paddocks and parklands within our suburbs is starting to dry out and will continue to do so as summer approaches.
“There is still plenty of time to ensure your property is as safe as possible, and we suggest starting with cutting your grass and cleaning up around your households and sheds.”
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 Hume and Whittlesea are urged to clean up their properties and for landowners to conduct safe private burn-offs where possible.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities, which allows 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 period 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.
Details: www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or 1800 668 511.
