Many of the places Victorians love to enjoy on their summer holidays are in a heightened fire risk
area so before hitting the roads this festive season, firefighters are urging Victorians to be aware
of conditions to safeguard their families.
While there has been above-average rainfall in parts of the state across October and November,
the bureau outlook for hotter and drier conditions can quickly dry out the fuels with significant
fires a real possibility towards the end of December and into January 2026.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan encourages Victorians to prepare before enjoying a much-needed break or festive getaway to see their friends and family.
“You may be travelling to an unfamiliar area and it’s important to understand the fire risk of your
holiday location. Now is not the time to become complacent,” Jason said.
“Grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25km per hour, faster than you can run, and they can
jump highways in the right conditions.”
“Visitors should learn about the area they are travelling to and monitor the Fire Danger Ratings
every day throughout summer.”
Victorians are urged to download the VicEmergency app and set up watch zones for the location
they’re visiting.
Reconsider your travel on days of Extreme Fire Danger Rating and do not travel to bushfire risk
areas on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating, your life may depend on the decisions you
make during a Catastrophic day.
Traveler safety tips:
• Download the VicEmergency app for real-time updates about emergencies across
Victoria or visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
• Check the fire danger ratings every day
• Keep roads clear for emergency services
• Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas on ‘Extreme’ days and do not travel to
bushfire risk areas on days of a ‘Catastrophic’ Fire Danger Rating.
• For all travel safety tips, visit: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/before-and-during-a-fire/leave-early/staying-safe-when-you-travel
Image: CFA Media
