CFAs in the Yarra Ranges have reminded people to stay vigilant after the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for winter has forecasted increased bushfire risk for the Yarra Ranges.
But, normal rainfall is expected to return this winter, and Victorians across the state can expect fire risk to return to normal levels.
Yet Seville CFA reminded residents to still practice safe burn offs after it had to respond to a number of out of control burn offs in the region last month.
“Local brigades have been busy in the last few weeks attending escaped burns. Please make sure you are burning off safely,” the post read.
The Seasonal Outlook for winter was released on 29 May and is developed by the Australian and New Zealand Fire and Emergency Services Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) acting chief officer Garry Cook said just because we’re in the colder months we shouldn’t become complacent.
“While cooler days are arriving, the landscape remains dry enough to allow fires to start and spread quickly if a burn-off gets out of control, especially when coupled with strong winds.
“The impact and damage of an escaped fire on local communities and emergency services can be devastating,” said Mr Cook.
Emergency Management acting commissioner Tim Wiebusch said people must be aware of all severe weather event risks and to ensure you vary your source of information for fires.
“With warmer and drier conditions in large parts of the state leading into winter, it’s important to remain prepared for the potential of fires. If you are burning off, please remember to register via the Fire Permits Victoria website, check the weather and notify your neighbours,” Mr Wiebusch said.
“We may still see storms and other emergencies this winter, so it’s important to remain prepared for all emergencies.”
“As part of your planning for emergencies, ensure you have enough supplies to last 72 hours. Download the VicEmergency app and never rely on one source of emergency information.”
Multiple out of control burn offs occurred at the end of the Fire Danger Period in May which stretched local CFA resources thin.
A blaze threatened houses near Cement Creek Road and Woods Point Road in East Warburton on 6 May and with no mains water available in the area, the cavalry from other brigades was required with 14 brigades assisting in total, bringing 22 appliances and more than 60 firefighters.
That afternoon, Hillcrest CFA went on to attend another out of control burn off on Lusatia Park Road in Woori Yallock, with an Advice warning issued for the intersection with Schoolhouse Road due to smoke over the road.
Hillcrest CFA 3rd lieutenant Peter Jenkin said while residents are allowed to burn off, they need to think more carefully about how the burn is conducted.
Victorian State Emergency Services (SES) acting chief officer operations Alistair Drayton said Victorians should always remain wary of not only bushfire risk, but also storm and flood risk.
“You can help by assembling an emergency kit, reaching out to your neighbour, and contributing to or joining your local VICSES unit.”
“This season we’re also asking to know your local risk of flooding – you can do this by checking your Local Flood Guide. Additionally, please ensure you download the Vic Emergency app to stay up to date with emergency advice and messaging, and if you come across flood water on the road, never drive through it.”
