Risk of grassfires increases

As a heatwave struck West Gippsland and increased the risk of grassfire last week, the CFA renewed calls for people to have bushfire plans.

Temperatures peaked at 35 degrees on Thursday afternoon and hit 37.9 degrees on Friday afternoon in Warragul, prompting reminders that the fire danger period continues and fire restrictions remain in place.

Cardinia Shire faced a total fire ban on Friday as metropolitan municipalities were issued an “extreme” fire danger rating.

The CFA said crews had responded to dozens of significant fast-moving grass and scrub fires across the state this fire season.

It followed Cr Keith Cook reinforcing to Baw Baw Shire residents that fire agencies were taking a zero tolerance approach to burn offs during the fire season.

Having attended a recent Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee meeting, Cr Cook said DELWP offices had noted less unattended campfires in local forests this season. However, a rubbish bin fire occured at Toorongo Falls camping area.

He said police also held concerns of arson following dumped cars being torched.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said it was extremely difficult to think clearly during an emergency. He said it was crucial for people living in high-risk areas to have a fire plan in place, check the daily fire danger rating and four-day forecast.

“It’s as simple as having a written and practised plan, so you and your family can put it into action when you’re faced with the risk of fire,” he said.

He urged people to use fire danger ratings as triggers to take action.

“Leaving early is the safest option on a day of extreme or catastrophic fire danger – houses are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in catastrophic conditions,” Mr Heffernan said.

“Fire safety is a shared responsibility across the community and on high-risk days you cannot expect a fire truck at every property,” Mr Heffernan added.

“It’s your responsibility to make the best possible decision for you and your family based on the current fire danger ratings and official warnings for your area.”

To prepare a fire plan, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan. Visit emergency.vic.gov.au to stay informed of conditions.