From 1am on Monday, November 27 Moira Shire will join other local government areas in the North East region with fire restrictions.
The El Niño weather pattern means Victorians can expect a hotter and drier summer than in recent years, and communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a Bushfire Survival Plan.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer north-east Ross Sullivan said across the region we are seeing grass dry out significantly, with vegetation now presenting a yellow colour, indicating an increased fire risk to north-east communities.
“As we head into summer, fuel loads are becoming greater, so we are asking residents to take this opportunity ahead of the restrictions to clean up their properties,” DCO Sullivan said.
“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.
“We are also urging landowners to conduct safe private burn-offs where possible and to register them online in advance.”
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.
No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
There are very strict conditions attached to these permits, and the liability sits with the permit holder to ensure they always act safely.
Fire Danger Period information
•A written permit is required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation during the FDP. You can apply for a permit at firepermits.vic.gov.au. It can also be issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer or the CFA District Office.
•Lighting fires in the open without a permit can bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment. For a full list of conditions, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/can.
•Farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms.
•More information about FDPs is available online at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod.
To find out what you can and can’t do during FDP, visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
Small grass fire
Meanwhile, Fire and Rescue NSW personnel attneded a small grass fire that occurred at about 12.30pm last Sunday, November 19 near the Mulwala electricity sub-station and transfer station.
The fire was beleived to be caused by a short from a power pole.
The situation disrupted electricity in parts of Mulwala and Barooga. Fire and Rescue NSW personnel from Mulwala safely extinguished the fire.
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