General News
29 October, 2024
Fire Danger Period starts on November 11, residents urged to begin preparation now
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) is just two weeks away for the Central Goldfields Shire, with significant fines or jail time for anyone caught deliberately lighting fires during restrictions.
The FDP will commence on November 11 in the shire, meaning no burning off is allowed without a permit and comes a full month earlier than last year’s fire restrictions.
While the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer is not yet available, the spring outlook forecast an increased risk of fire for large areas in southwestern Victoria and with a drier than average August, September and October locally this year, residents can expect a hotter and drier summer.
Goldfields Group Officer Peter Higgins, who oversees all local brigades, said significant ground work had gone into determining the start date for fire restrictions.
“The date the FDP commences is something that is considered carefully,” he said.
“We look at things like the curing rate of grasses, fuel loads, forecast weather conditions and patterns as well as whether current and previous conditions are wet, or if they’ve been more dry.
“We’re looking to have quite a dry summer this time around, so bringing fire restrictions in earlier than last year makes more sense.”
Ahead of the FDP, Mr Higgins said it’s critical local residents begin preparing their properties.
“The ideal position we want residents’ properties to be in is a maintained one,” he said.
“It’s in everyone’s best interest to ensure your property and your neighbour’s property is tidy and prepared in the event of a fire.
“Have a conversation with your neighbours and if they need it, consider offering a hand. You might be thankful for it if your actions prevent a fire.
“It’s also really important that residents have a fire plan, practice it and know what it is. A lot of people will say they have one, but in a stressful situation, would you be able to remember it or enact it?”
Ahead of the fire season, Mr Higgins said local fire brigades have been undergoing training to brush up on their skills.
“Local brigades have been undertaking their compulsory 12 month updates ahead of the fire season with things like hazardous trees, burnover and entrapment drills,” he said.
“We’re holding a group training exercise tonight with fire brigades from the local district and Forest Fire Management.
“We’ve also had a number of firefighters from the community undertaking additional qualifications and training in the lead up to summer.”
As with previous years, CFA will take a no tolerance approach to any deliberately lit fires during the FDP, with significant penalties applicable to those caught doing so.
“We will be taking a no tolerance approach to any fires deliberately lit during fire restrictions,” Mr Higgins said.
“The best way to avoid any consequences is to simply not do it — it’s not worth risking you or your neighbours property or life.”
Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.