The local government areas include Moira, Strathbogie, Mansfield, Mitchell, Murrindindi and Indigo shires; City of Greater Shepparton; and the rural cities of Benalla and Wangaratta.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer North East Ross Sullivan said the El Niño weather pattern means Victorians can expect a hotter and drier summer than recent years, and communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a bushfire survival plan.
He said across the region the CFA was seeing grass dry out significantly, with vegetation now presenting a yellow colour, indicating an increased fire risk to north-east communities.
“As we head into summer, fuel loads are becoming greater, so we are asking residents to take this opportunity ahead of the restrictions to clean up their properties,” Mr Sullivan said.
“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.
“We are also urging landowners to conduct safe private burn-offs where possible and to register them online in advance.”
While CFA’s 52,000 members are poised to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.
No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
For more information, go to: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/firedangerperiod or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
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