Fire danger date

THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) for Murrindindi Shire will begin at 1am on Monday, 24 November 2014.
CFA District 12 Operations Manager Peter Creak said last week that anyone planning to reduce fuel by burning off had only a short window of time to get the work done, but warned that caution needed to be taken even before the FDP came in.
He urged people to register their burn-offs by calling 1800 668 511 and to stay mindful of conditions.
“Out of control burn-offs and unregistered burn offs have been a major headache for brigades,” he said.
“Just because the Fire Danger Period is yet to start doesn’t mean it’s safe to burn off. You should avoid burning off when high winds are forecast – not only on the day of your burn but for the days afterwards.”
While the FDP for Yarra Ranges municipality is yet to be set, Mr Creak’s advice is equally relevant for residents looking to make the most of pre-FDP deadline.
Mr Creak said this fire season CFA would be taking a zero tolerance approach to any fires resulting from negligent behaviour.
“Expect any fire you start to be fully investigated by police,” he said.
“Even if you have a permit to use fire over the Fire Danger Period, make sure you read the conditions carefully. Failing to follow just one of those conditions can still leave you open to prosecution.
While CFA does everything it can, we look to the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.”
Mr Creak said recent warm and dry conditions and rapid rate of grass curing meant an earlier start to the Fire Danger Period this year.
“So far all the indicators are pointing to a challenging fire season ahead,” he said.
During the Fire Danger Period (FDP) fires cannot be lit in the open air without a written permit from CFA or a Municipal Fire Prevention Officer. FDPs are based on local conditions and take into account fuel moisture, fuel loads, grassland curing, weather and rainfall.
Find “Can I or Can’t I?” information at cfa.vic.gov.au/can or by calling 1800 240 667.
All burn-offs should be registered with the VicFire Burn-off notification line on 1800 668 511.