Being prepared: fire restrictions coming

By Andy Wilson

Nov 1, 2024

Regional and rural residents are urged to have their homes prepared for an expected high bushfire season. Photo: Dean Lewins.

Residents in Greater Shepparton and the Moira and Strathbogie Shires are being urged to undertake their summer preparedness activities for bushfires as soon as possible.

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CFA assistant chief fire officer Tony Owen said this summer would be a ‘little different’ to the last two summers because of less rainfall and expected higher daytime and night-time temperatures over the next three months.

“The landscape is drying out earlier and we anticipate we will have a ‘normal’ season with more fire activity than the past two years” Mr Owen said.

“Now is the time to prepare your property; if we have a spell of hot, dry, weather, restrictions could come in really soon.

“There is underlying dryness in the landscape and the forests are dry when compared with the previous two years.”

The starting date for the fire danger period is determined by several factors that include the weather and fuel loads.

Farmers also need to ensure their farming equipment is ready for summer and comply with requirements such as water extinguishers and exhaust systems free from mechanical defects.

Further information can be found at cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property

Any burn-offs require permits prior to lighting up and can be requested from firepermits.vic.gov.au or calling 1800 668 511.