Community
23 January, 2025
CFA urges fire caution over the long weekend
SOUTH west Victorians have been urged to remain vigilant against the looming threat of bushfires over the Australia Day long weekend.
Recent fires across the state serve as a reminder the fire season is just getting started and communities need to be ready as they embark on their activities, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) has warned.
With the fires now contained, and visitors welcome to re-enter bushfire affected areas, the CFA has called on the community to not let its guard down as crews are still active on the fireground, and the hot, dry conditions expected could pose challenges and elevated fire danger.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan encouraged travellers to familiarise themselves with the fire danger ratings of the area they are heading to and to monitor conditions through more than two sources of information.
“While the recent bushfires have been contained by the incredible work of our dedicated firefighters, fire risk will continue to linger over the coming months,” he said.
“There is still underlying soil and vegetation dryness across the south west and western Victoria, as well as parts of West Gippsland forests and grasslands are drier than normal.
“While conditions are normal across the north east and eastern ranges due to the recent heavy rainfall, the other areas missed out and are likely to continue to face elevated risk. It is not unusual for fires to arise in these circumstances.
“With temperatures set to reach high 20’s to mid-30’s across the state, I want to emphasise the significance of downloading the VicEmergency App to remain alert to any fires in the region you find yourselves in.
“You may need to alter your route, so please avoid driving through high-risk areas in hot and dry conditions, and if using machinery avoid driving through dry vegetation on days such as these.”
Residents are reminded they cannot light a fire in the open air to burn off vegetation without a permit issued by a fire prevention officer, as the state is still well within fire restrictions.
Mr Heffernan also urged those firing up their barbecues and outdoor cooking appliances to make sure they are properly extinguished before walking away this weekend.
“We want all Victorians to enjoy their long weekend without any surprises, so it is really important your set-up is safe,” he said.
“Our messages remain clear – check your equipment for any faults before use and always have someone by the fire.
“We also recommend having at least 10 litres of water or a hose nearby.
“Give yourself some clearance from walls, fences and flammable materials of at least three metres and continue to check wind conditions are suitable before igniting any flame.
“We know campfires, spit roasts, pizza ovens and fire pits will be popular this weekend, however if they are not within a properly constructed fireplace or exceed one metre by one metre in size, they can pose a serious fire risk.”
To learn more visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au.
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