In preparation for the upcoming bushfire season, as many as 15 hazard reduction burns are planned for central Victoria.
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Forest Fire Management's acting regional manager forest fire operations Paul Bates said the spring burns are focused on the region's asset protection zone.
"We will reduce fuel into spring in those areas closer to towns and that will have a real impact on reducing the speed and impact of fires if they do occur in summer," Mr Bates said.
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An area of about 2000 hectares will also be slashed and mulched across central Victoria, to reduce grass fuels.
"The outlook is indicating it will be wetter than average in central Victoria, with a higher likelihood of a La Nina forming," Mr Bates said.
"What that means is it will just keep the forests wetter for a bit longer and delay the fire season starting."
More rain will ensure soil moisture levels are maintained and delay the drying of forest fuels, but could be problematic on road sides and across private land.
"When we get into summer and have hot windy days, grass growth becomes a higher risk for those fast moving, intense grass fires," Mr Bates said.
"There will be an increased risk this year from those types of fires compared to previous years."
CFA District 2 assistant chief fire officer Bill Johnstone said Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world and everyone must prepare themselves and their property for bushfires.
"The best action you can take is to make your property defendable before the hot weather arrives," Mr Johnstone said.
"Many property owners use fire as a legitimate method to reduce their risk by burning off around their property. However, conditions are not always suitable for burn offs, so you might want to consider other options such as spraying, mulching, chipping or taking green waste to a transfer station."
Visit the CFA's website for more information about preparing for the bushfire season.