Seven municipalities in Victoria’s North East Region are to enter their official Fire Danger Period (FDP) this month, with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) to introduce FDP restrictions across the region.
CFA District 12 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Rob van Dorsser said the restrictions would come into effect on 19 December for Mitchell Shire Council, Murrindindi Shire Council, Indigo Shire Council, Alpine Shire Council, Towong Shire Council, City of Wodonga and Alpine Resorts Victoria (Falls Creek and Mt Hotham).
“The return of a La Nina weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the State, particularly in October, however that doesn’t mean communities can become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season,” Assistant CFO van Dorsser said.
“The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities,” he said.
“Grass and fine fuels are starting to dry off very quickly across the region, which means there is an increased risk of fast-moving grassfires, should one start.”
Assistant CFO van Dorsser said widespread rainfall in winter and spring had led to high fuel loads and the region could expect to see significant grassfires to start the fire season.
“The combination of drying fuels and the amount of grass that we’re seeing in paddocks makes it a high risk for the area,” he said.
“The community should be reminded that the fire season has arrived in our area and to take caution when dealing with fire and items that can cause a fire.”
Assistant CFO van Dorsser urged residents to take this opportunity ahead of the FDPs to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property.
He said anyone using fire to clean up their properties should notify authorities of the burn-off at the Fire Permits Victoria website or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.
The Fire Permits Victoria website can be accessed at this PS News link.
