Hume and Whittlesea councils and firefighting authorities are warning rural and city-fringe landowners to be prepared for the looming fire season.
The warning comes as the CFA marked Fire Action Week, reminding residents to take action to prevent a fire emergency this summer.
Hume council is urging residents to clear their properties of long grass, weeds, firewood and other fuel.
Mayor Casey Nunn said residents should assess their property for combustible materials and develop an action plan to tackle an emergency.
“Check whether overgrown grasses and weeds are cleared, whether leaves need to be cleaned from gutters, or if chemicals could be better stored. Pack important documents, photos, medications, money and clothes so you can get away quickly before a fire starts and think about those who may also need help,” Cr Nunn said.
Hume council recently changed its local laws relating to burning off vegetation. Land owners with properties of less than two hectares are now allowed to burn off tree and vegetation waste if a permit has been granted before the declared fire danger period begins.
Whittlesea council has been conducting fire hazard inspections since October 21. More than 1000 landowners have since been asked to clean up or risk a $1444 fine.
Phil Peacock, operations officer for CFA’s District 14, which covers the northern and western metropolitan areas, said recent weather conditions indicated that it would be another busy season for fire authorities. “We’re expecting a higher-than-average fire season in Hume and Whittlesea due to vegetation growth and lots of fuel,” he said.
The CFA is encouraging people on the urban fringe to keep their properties clear of weeds, sticks and rubbish.
