AS of Monday, the City of Greater Shepparton, Shire of Moira and the Shire of Strathbogie are now in the CFA’s declared Fire Danger Period, meaning fires cannot be lit in the open air.
The Danger Period continues throughout summer until withdrawn by the CFA and restricts activities in the community to help prevent the risk of fires and landowners are warned to take immediate steps to reduce the risk of fire on their property and ensure it is well maintained throughout the season.
You now cannot light a fire in the open air without a permit or comply with certain requirements. If you don’t obtain a permit, you could be breaking the law and may be prosecuted. Permits must be obtained from the CFA.
Local CFA District 22 Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO), Tony Owen, said while there are patches of green in some parts of the district, grass is mostly well-cured and there is an abundance of fuel.
“Even with further rain, grass and bush will continue to dry and the fire potential is further heightened by increased fuel loads and warmer weather over the next three months,” he said.
“Ensure you mitigate the risk for bushfire on your property sooner rather than later and ensure your bushfire survival plan is understood by all family members.
“Reducing fuel loads will ensure if a fire does break out, it has less chance of taking hold or spreading.
“While CFA and our partner agencies Fire Rescue Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria are doing everything we can to prepare for the bushfire season, we look to the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.”
ACFO Owen said there was still a short window of opportunity to clean up your property if you haven’t already done so.
“People need to be aware that if using fire to clean up around their properties they need to register these on 1800 668 511. So far this year, out-of-control burn-offs and unregistered burn-offs have already caused unnecessary callouts to brigades,” he said.
“You should not burn-off when winds are high or high winds are forecast – not only on the day of your burn but for the days afterwards.
“For information about burn-off restrictions specific to your area, consult your local council.”
ACFO Owen said once the Fire Danger Period comes into effect, CFA has a zero-tolerance approach to any fires caused by negligent behaviour.
“Expect any escaped or uncontrolled fire you start to be investigated by CFA and Victoria Police,” ACFO Owen said.
