General News
13 November, 2024
Fire season to start
Fire season officially began across the Wimmera on Monday, October 28, with restrictions coming into place.
Already CFA leaders are concerned for the bushfire risk this season, due to the conditions.
As a result, CFA have declared the first First Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the 2024-25 fire season for Hindmarsh Shire Council, Horsham Rural City Council, West Wimmera Shire Council and Yarriambiack Shire Council.
It comes as Victorians are warned to expect a drier and hotter summers, and communities are asked to create a Bushfire Survival Plan and prepare their properties.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said with an increased fire risk expected in the west and southwest of the state, now is the time to take action and be ready for what’s ahead.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility and we ask Victorians to be prepared and stay informed,” he said.
“Take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up your property but also be cautious when burning off and ensure it’s properly extinguished.
"Now is also the time to sit down with your household and prepare your bushfire plan.”
CFA West Region Acting Deputy Chief Officer Mark Gunning said as a result of reduced rainfall this year, he was concerned about the dry conditions already evident in the far west of the state.
“Following from a devastating fire season in the Wimmera earlier this year, we saw many people who had prepared their properties for fire, and survived the passage of the bushfires in the Grampians and southern Wimmera," he said.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au) or by calling 1800 668 511.
By registering your burn-off online, you allow 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 FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
Lighting fires in the open without a permit can result in a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.