CFA crews have responded to dozens of significant fast-moving grass and scrub fires this season.
Those living near areas that have bush, forest, long grass or coastal scrub need to consider their fire plan and understand the fire danger ratings and what they mean.
The new Australian Fire Danger Rating System was introduced last year and reduces the number of rating levels to four — Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic.
On days of Extreme fire danger, fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous, so leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is your safest option.
On days of Catastrophic fire danger, lives and property are likely to be impacted, so people should leave bushfire risk areas early in the morning or the night before.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said it was extremely difficult to think clearly during an emergency, so it was crucial for Victorians living in high-risk areas to have a plan in place.
“It’s as simple as having a written and practised plan, so you and your family can put it into action when you’re faced with the risk of fire,” he said.
Mr Heffernan urged people to use fire danger ratings as triggers to take action to keep themselves safe.
“Leaving early is the safest option on a day of Extreme or Catastrophic fire danger — houses are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in Catastrophic conditions.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility across the community and on high-risk days you cannot expect a fire truck at every property.
“It’s your responsibility to make the best possible decision for you and your family based on the current fire danger ratings and official warnings for your area.”
To prepare your fire plan, visit the CFA website at: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan
To check the daily fire danger rating and four-day forecast, visit: cfa.vic.gov.au
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