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EXPECT to see and smell smoke for the next few days, with about 120 fuel reduction burns scheduled for ignition statewide between now and Friday.
Stable conditions have prompted Forest Fire Management Victoria to conduct more planned burns, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Darrin McKenzie said.
“As the weather starts to get cooler we need to take every opportunity to reduce bushfire risk for our communities next year by conducting these planned burns,” he said.
Forest Fire Management Victoria is working in partnership with the Country Fire Authority to conduct the burns.
Mr McKenzie said the planned burning would result in smoke being seen across regional Victoria.
He cautioned that some parks and forests might be closed.
Planned burns might also affect visibility on roads and might result in traffic management measures, including speed restrictions and road closures.
“We understand that smoke from planned burning as well as smoke from private burn-offs can affect some people and appreciate everyone's patience while we complete this work,” Mr McKenzie said
He said people could check if any smoke they encountered was the result of a planned burn by checking the website: www.ffm.vic.gov.au/plannedburn
Information is also available via the VicEmergency app or by calling the VicEmergency hotline on 1800 226 226.
The Department of Health and Human Services advises people experiencing symptoms that might be related to smoke exposure to seek medical advice or call Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24