Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
-
Rural City of Wodonga
-
Towong Shire Council
-
Alpine Shire Council
-
Indigo Shire Council
It has been a long and challenging fire season and as we head into autumn, there is still heightened fire risk, with dry weather expected for many more months.
As fire restrictions begin to lift, CFA is urging residents to remain alert as the current and continued conditions can still lead to fast-moving grassfires even in cooler weather.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer for the North East, Gavin Thompson, said the easing of restrictions was due to a number of favourable factors in these areas.
“Recent fires in these areas have shown less intensity due to some recent welcomed rainfall,” Gavin said.
“Rain has fallen consistently, as predicted in the region which is allowing us to ease restrictions.”
CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer District 17, Mark Hildebrandt, said there had been noticeable new growth in the district.
“New growth points to higher levels of moisture which will help to keep any fire behaviour manageable,” Mark said.
“However, we do ask people to still be mindful of the risk associated with burning off and to please still follow the strict safety protocols if you are going to have a burn off.”
Residents travelling to other parts of Victoria are reminded to remain vigilant and to check the Fire Danger Periods that are in place in the region they are residing.
With the end of the FDP, some landowners may choose to resume burn-offs, but it’s essential to take precautions and ensure conditions are safe before proceeding.
To prevent unnecessary emergency callouts, landowners must register their burn-offs. If smoke or fire is reported, it will be cross-checked with the register to avoid an emergency response.
Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.
Burn-off safety checklist
For tips on protecting your health from smoke, visit the EPA Victoria website.