The fire danger season is fast approaching and residents are strongly advised to be prepared.
The Australian and New Zealand National Council for Fire and Emergency Services Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring 2024 has revealed a predicted increased risk of fire to the southwest, west and northwestern parts of Victoria due to a drier than average first half of the year. Without significant rainfall, there is likely to be an above average fire risk and an earlier start to the fire season during the spring period.
The Fire Danger Period for Hepburn Shire has not yet been declared. Last year, the Fire Danger Period started on November 20 and a similar date may be declared by the CFA this year. If you are planning to burn off as part of your bushfire preparations, you are advise to do so soon. See the CFA website for up-to-date information on fire restriction dates.
Take action now to prepare your household and property.
Have a plan: Sit down with your family or household and review your Bushfire Survival Plan or make a Plan if you don’t already have one. Visit the CFA website to learn more about developing your own Bushfire Survival Plan.
Download and install the VicEmergency app to stay across incidents and fire danger ratings in your area.
Prepare your property as the weather begins to warm:
- Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds.
- Prune tree branches so they are not overhanging the roof or touching walls.
- Clear your gutters.
- Keep grass shorter than 10cm.
- Remove leaves and twigs from around your property.
- Test anything that is part of your fire plan such as sprinklers, pumps and generators.
- Check that your home and contents and motor insurance is current and includes a sufficient level of cover. The RACV has calculators which may assist in calculating the cost of rebuilding your home or replacing contents.
Hepburn Shire offers free green waste disposal during November to assist residents in preparing their properties.
