Grassland curing maps provided by the Country Fire Authority show how dry Victoria is compared to the same time last year.
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The maps show is substantially drier than at the same time last year, despite recent spring rain.
Fire danger periods have been introduced in the Greater Bendigo, Loddon, north and south Buloke, Gannawarra, Campaspe, Swan Hill and Mildura municipalities.
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said residents should be vigilant in checking current restrictions, weather conditions and council local laws as Fire Danger Periods continue to be introduced.
“The effects of an out-of-control fire can be devastating and we want everyone to exercise extreme caution, especially with the fire season beginning early,” he said.
“We’re reminding people to always register their burn-offs so we know what is happening in the area, especially if brigades are being called to fires.
“Even if you have registered your burn, conditions can change quickly and fires can get out of control within minutes in hot and windy conditions.”
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said registered burns reduce the chances of CFA brigades being called out unnecessarily if a member of the public calls about smoke or a fire in the area.
He added that people should never leave a burn-off unattended as it’s the resident’s responsibility to ensure that it does not get out of control.
“If a burn-off does get out of control, call Triple-0 immediately,” he said. “
“People should have a fire plan and prepare for the event of fire, and never be complacent.”
For more information on fire warnings and restrictions visit the CFA website.
Keep your burn-off safe and legal:
- Check fire restrictions with your local council and register your burn on 1800 668 511
- Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind
- To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand
- Leave a three metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn
- Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading
- Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration
- If your burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately
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