RECENT heavy rainfall and lower than normal temperatures do not change the fact that Victoria is still in a Fire Danger Period, the Country Fire Authority says.
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The warning comes as Victoria Police reported a marked spike in rubbish burn-offs since recent rain events.
Loddon Mallee regional controller Mark Gilmore said many areas were extremely dry and fire restrictions remained in force.
"We want to remind people that we are now in the middle of summer and are sure to see a return of higher temperatures and fire danger ratings at the higher end of the scale," he said.
Mr Gilmore said the criteria for Fire Danger Periods were based on local conditions and took into account moisture, fuel loads, grassland curing, weather and rainfall.
“Burning off cannot be carried out under any circumstances during the Fire Danger Period and property owners and works managers are reminded that they need to apply for any permits well in advance.”
Inspector Colin Renton from Victoria Police said police were called to all fires during Fire Danger Periods and would investigate and prosecute all breaches of the law.
He said police had prosecuted a number of property owners for burning off rubbish.
"Any person lighting a fire without a written permit or causing a fire through failing to comply with permit conditions will be prosecuted," Inspector Renton said.
Each summer Crime Stoppers Victoria partners with emergency services to raise awareness and encourage reporting of bushfire arson through the Zero Tolerance campaign.
Arson is attributed to 50 per cent of all bushfires across the country.
CFA regional education coordinator Paul Tangey said residents should check the fire danger rating in their weather district every day over summer.
Call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667 or go to cfa.vic.gov.au
