Fire restrictions have been lifted across the state of Victoria, and private residents are taking the opportunity to burn off grass, stubble, weeds and undergrowth to maintain their properties.
Following a year that saw CFA volunteers respond to 815 incidents caused by escaped burn-offs, fire crews are urging landowners to take extra precautions before lighting up.
While encouraged, CFA reminds Victorians to monitor local weather forecasts in the lead up to ignition.
In 2023, over 22,500 volunteer hours were utilised responding to incidents involving escaped private burn-offs. Most call outs were during April and May and later in spring from September to November.
Of the 815 escaped burn offs, 69 per cent of them had no record of being registered and 113 required more than five CFA vehicles.
Before burning off, ensure:
- You are following regulations or laws by CFA and your local council.
- A fire break is established with no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material.
- You register your burn-off using Fire Permits Victoria at https://www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/ or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.
- Check for more information on how to prepare your property and burn-off off safely on www.cfa.vic.gov.au/prepare.
Image: CFA Media
