This fire season has the potential to be a grassfire-dominated season.
CFA District 22 assistant chief fire officer Tony Owen said while there were patches of green in some parts of the district, there was an abundance of fuel.
“Even with further rain, grass and bush will continue to dry and the fire potential is further heightened by increased fuel loads and warmer weather over the next three months,” he said.
“Ensure you mitigate the risk for bushfire on your property sooner rather than later and ensure your bushfire survival plan is understood by all family members.
“Reducing fuel loads will ensure if a fire does break out, it has less chance of taking hold or spreading.”
Mr Owen said there was still a short window of opportunity to clean up properties.
“People need to be aware that if using fire to clean up around their properties they need to register these on 1800 668 511,” he said.
He said once the fire danger period came into effect, CFA had a zero-tolerance approach to any fires caused by negligent behaviour.
“Expect any escaped or uncontrolled fire you start to be investigated by CFA and Victoria Police.”
Fire danger periods are based on local conditions and take into account fuel moisture, fuel loads, grassland curing, weather and rainfall.
During the period, fires can not be lit in the open air without a written permit from CFA or a municipal fire prevention officer.
CFA can issue permits for certain circumstances during the period.
There are very strict conditions attached to these permits and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.
To apply for a permit, visit firepermits.vic.gov.au
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