Displays when Total Fire Ban in force
The CFA is urging Victorians to take extreme care when burning off after responding to a high volume of out-of-control private burn-offs since the end of fire restrictions in the Macedon Ranges.
On Saturday afternoon Hesket, Newham and Woodend Brigades were called to yet another burn-off that was potentially very dangerous. As you can see by the photo, there was plenty of fuel to spread the fire. Fortunately, crews stopped tin time.
Woodend CFA Captain Mick Christie said that “dryer than normal conditions for this time of year have caught many residents by surprise.
“We have responded to nine out-of-control burn-offs on private property in our area alone in the past few weeks.
“We understand residents want to take advantage of milder conditions to clean up their properties, but the effects of an out-of-control fire can be devastating,” Mr Christie said.
“It is vital people do the right thing by checking conditions, complying with local by-laws and registering their burn-offs.
“Our part of the state can still be warm and windy at this time of year. If a fire is left unattended in windy conditions it can spread quickly and put neighbouring properties, homes and bushland in danger.
“It is absolutely essential that you have enough water on hand to put out a fire. There isn’t enough time to run back to your house if your fire gets out of control. You should consider if a fire break, free of flammable materials is required around any burn-off.”
Burning off undergrowth and other vegetation is generally permitted outside of the Fire Danger Period on certain size land allotments, and you can check the details on the Macedon Ranges Shire website under ‘Burning Off’. However, landowners should register their burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511.
Property owners must be aware they have legal obligations when burning off and failing to comply with local council by-laws may lead to a fine.
Mr Christie said that registering burn-offs with ESTA on 1800 668 511 would ensure the burn could be added to the statewide register. “All calls to Triple Zero about smoke sightings are cross-checked with that register, and fire-fighters are called out if nothing is listed for that location,” Mr Christie said.
“False alarm calls to unregistered burn-offs take volunteer firefighters away from workplaces, families and other emergencies.”
Keep burn-offs safe:
• Check regulations set down by the Macedon Ranges Shire
• Register your burn with ESTA by phoning 1800 668 511
• Notify neighbours at least two hours before starting the burn
• Check the weather forecast for the day of the burn and the days afterwards
• Establish a fire break cleared of all flammable material is required
AND NEVER LEAVE THE BURN UNATTENDED!
