Six thousand more burn-offs were registered with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) between the start of May and the end of August, fresh data shows.
CFA has praised Victorians for registering their burn-offs as thousands more have taken the opportunity to clean up their properties this winter compared to last year.
CFA acting chief officer, Garry Cook said “Registering your burn-off is important as it means CFA volunteer firefighters are not called out unnecessarily when someone reports smoke, as any reports are cross-referenced with ESTA’s register,” he said.
“We’re not sure if there are more burn-offs, or simply more people doing the right thing but with almost 57,000 registered through winter compared to almost 51,000 last year, I think it’s a combination of both.
However, the fire danger period is fast approaching across Victoria, after which the window to conduct burn-offs without a permit closes.
“The best way to defend your homes is to prepare before the fire danger period begins. This includes cleaning up your gardens, your gutters and removing flammable waste from your yards,” Acting Chief Officer Cook said.
By registering burn-offs, any reports of smoke or fire will be cross-checked with the burn-off register to avoid unnecessary response of fire services.
Landowners can register their burn-off with ESTA by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au,.
Keep your burn-off safe and legal:
- Check fire restrictions with your local council and register your burn on 1800 668 511
- Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind
- To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand
- Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn
- Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading
- Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration
- If your burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately
For more information about preparing your property, go to cfa.vic.gov.au/prepare
