The Fire Danger Period has now been declared for much of the state, with restrictions currently in place across nearly every local government area in Victoria.
The Fire Danger Period came into effect for the Benalla and Mitchell local government areas on November 18, while Strathbogie, Greater Shepparton, Greater Bendigo, and Campaspe entered their fire danger period earlier this month.
It was a drier-than-average autumn and winter in the north east, leading CFA representatives to say there was an increased fire risk this summer due to the build-up of dead and dry vegetation.
The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said it was important that communities were well prepared ahead of summer to ensure they were kept safe.
“Our dedicated CFA volunteers are doing an incredible job keeping our community safe, but it is critical that everyone is still prepared and following restrictions outlined for the Fire Danger Period,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Whether it be setting up a plan for your property or ensuring your burn-offs are registered, by following these protocols you will ensure our local fire brigades are able to do the best possible job of keeping us all safe.”
Ms Cleeland said there were still concerns about the lack of support being provided to local brigades as summer approached.
“We are sadly entering this fire danger period understrength yet again due to a string of bad decisions by this Government when it comes to fire management,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This includes a lack of urgency to carry out planned burns and roadside slashing, the inadequate upgrading of vehicles and facilities, and ongoing concerns about support being given to CFA brigades.
“Unfortunately, these are some of the same issues that we raised last year and it is imperative that our CFA receives better support to ensure they can keep our communities, and themselves, safe during the summer.”
More information about FDPs is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod.
Fire Danger Period information:
- A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. You can apply for a permit at http://firepermits.vic.gov.au . It can also be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office.
- Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment. For a full list of conditions, visit vic.gov.au/can.
- Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at vic.gov.au/farms.
- To find out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
