RESIDENTS in the Bendigo area should be ready to act as a late-week heatwave increases the risk of dangerous fires, a Country Fire Authority commander says.
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There have already been a series of grass fires over the past week, including a 17-hectare blaze in Mia Mia on Monday that destroyed a car and came close to homes.
The cause of that fire is still being investigated.
But CFA district 18 commander Robin McNally said after a wet spring, there was a concerning amount of long grass in the region.
"Fuel loads throughout the Bendigo district have been very high," he said. "That increases the risk of a fast-running fire moving through the landscape.
"We've recently been getting high winds as well. When winds climb to 40km/h to 60km/h, the flames can be fanned very heavily and people need to react quickly."
Bendigo temperatures are forecast to reach the late 30s and early 40s over the New Year period, with northern regions forecast to hit even higher temperatures.
Mr McNally said residents needed to ensure they had a fire safety plan ready to go - regardless of whether they lived in more rural areas or the Bendigo city centre.
"We've seen in the past that fires have moved quickly into urban areas like Eaglehawk or Kangaroo Flat," he said.
"Fast-moving grass fires can travel at 10km/h to 15km/h. It can be in your backyard in a blink of an eye so it's important for people to be very mindful.
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"You need to make sure you're aware of what's going on and be prepared to leave. Monitor all different types of media - like radio and online - and regularly check your phones for alerts and updates."
Mr McNally said there could be a number of Total Fire Ban days on the cards this week.
But even if those days were not declared, he said people should still be cautious when using machinery or fireworks.
"People need to be mindful of the conditions," Mr McNally said. "When we get into these types of weather patterns, please reduce the use of heavy machinery because they can create a spark.
"With a bit of wind, it can be pushed into the landscape."
To learn more about how to prepare for fire, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare.
When a bushfire takes hold, use multiple sources to stay informed including:
- emergency.vic.gov.au
- VicEmergency Hotline - free call 1800 226 226
- VicEmergency app
- Facebook or Twitter
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