Rain does little in reducing fire risks

Rain in West and South Gippsland over the past fortnight has done little to decrease what is regarded by emergency management services as a greater than normal risk of bush and grass fires this summer.

The CFA’s District 9 operations officer Bill Alards said the rain had provided only some surface moisture that would dry up quickly without follow up rains.

He said there was an early warning of the potential high fire risk when two burn-offs on properties at Mirboo North and Childers “escaped” last month.

Mr Alards said those fires highlighted the need to check weather forecasts for not only the day a burn-off was planned but also for the next couple of days, especially in regard to wind strengths.

Property owners should also ensure they register planned burn-offs with the CFA on 1800 668 511.

Mr Alards said local CFA staff had been working in recent months to make sure landing areas for aerial fire-fighting apparatus were in order and that staging areas for vehicles and machinery used on the ground were ready and equipped.

Volunteers brigades had also put considerable time into ensuring communications, control and command systems as well fire-fighting equipment were up to date and working.

Training had also been stepped up including a new course dealing with working near dangerous trees.

Mr Alards said people should already be giving thought to their own preparations ahead for the fire danger period.

They should be making sure hazards around their homes and properties are removed and their fire plans are in place.

He said rural property owners needed to ensure their entrance roads were well cleared for at least four metres wide with similar height clearance to provide access for fire trucks if needed.

A Vic. Emergency ‘phone app is available to give up to date warnings.

Emergency Services Minister James Merlino said the state would have its largest ever firefighting fleet this summer with a total of 49 aircraft.

They include two large air tankers and two Air-Cranes.

The tankers can carry up to 15,000 litres of water, foam or retardant while the Air-Cranes are able to carry 7500 litres of water.

Some of the aircraft will be involved in supervision from the air and intelligence gathering.