Final chance to burn off before restrictions

Fire restrictions will be declared across Gippsland from next Monday.

In all Gippsland municipalities, including Baw Baw Shire, the CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) will introduce fire restrictions from 1am on Monday December 19.

Fire restrictions will remain in place until May 1 unless stated otherwise.

CFA acting assistant chief officer Bryan Russell said once restrictions were introduced, no fires can be lit on private land without a permit.

“To protect community safety, permits are subject to stringent conditions and can be obtained from your CFA District office,” Mr Russell said.

“The community needs to be fire ready – especially those living in high risk areas. Fire restrictions are in place for a reason – to help prevent fires from starting.”

FFMVic’s assistant chief officer Chris Stephenson said “fire is a natural part of our environment and Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world, with days of extreme fire danger every year.”

“Both fire services are well-resourced and well-prepared to respond to the threat of bushfire, with additional fire fighters, new equipment and an expanded aircraft fleet.”

“We have consulted with local communities about planning and risk management, working with many to prepare their local incident management plans.”

“It’s critical that residents understand and comply with these fire restrictions to help to prevent bushfires,” Mr Stephenson said.

“We urge residents to make preparation for fire a habit so they are not caught unprepared when bushfires strike.”

“Prepare your property, prepare yourself and prepare your family for fire. Have a fire plan in place and most importantly, practise it.”

“It’s up to you to check Fire Danger Ratings every day in summer – these help you know when the conditions are dangerous enough to enact your fire plan.

“Remember that if you can see smoke, you’re leaving it too late. A fire that is miles away could be at your door in minutes,” Mr Stephenson said.