The Country Fire Authority is reminding central Victorians to be vigilant when mowing or slashing on warm summer days following a number of grass fires in the region.
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Over the past two weeks, CFA crews have attended several grass fires in the district which were unintentionally started by a slasher or mower, including one in Harcourt on Sunday.
The CFA is now asking the community to be aware of the risks of operating farming machinery, equipment and vehicles during the summer months.
CFA north-west community engagement coordinator Paul Tangey said it was important to remain vigilant when using a mower or slasher in warm weather.
"People need to be vigilant and be aware of what's happening and take notice of where you are doing the activity," he said.
The CFA recommended other activities such as welding, grinding and barbecuing be practiced on days that are lower fire risk.
Mr Tangey said the fire season wasn't over and vigilance was important.
"We have had warm days but we haven't had the heat of summer that we usually see," he said.
"The community just needs to remember that we are in the fire restrictions and all the rules still apply.
"Even though we haven't seen a total fire ban this season in central Victoria, that doesn't mean we aren't going to see one in the coming months so let's just stay vigilant."
Harcourt CFA captain Andrew Wilson echoed this sentiment and said the blaze on Sunday was an example of how quickly a fire could ignite from a slasher.
"The slasher blades struck the ground and we believe that it started the fire and that's how simple it (can be)," he said.
"People just need to be mindful of the conditions in which they do, it needs to be done, do it first thing in the morning when it's cool."
Captain Wilson said while central Victoria wasn't as far into the season as it usually is at this point in the year, it was still incredibly important to be aware of all conditions.
The CFA recommends individuals check the fire danger ratings in their area every day over summer.
These ratings predict how a fire would behave if one started and have been designed to inform appropriate action.
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Allanah Sciberras
Journalist reporting on crime, local council and general news for daily newspaper, The Bendigo Advertiser. Contact me via allanah.sciberras@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Journalist reporting on crime, local council and general news for daily newspaper, The Bendigo Advertiser. Contact me via allanah.sciberras@austcommunitymedia.com.au
