LANDOWNERS will be looking to take advantage of the mild autumn conditions to conduct burn-offs on their properties, with authorities expecting a surge in burn-off registrations over the coming weeks.
Following a year that saw CFA volunteers respond to 936 incidents caused by escaped burn-offs, CFA and Triple Zero Victoria are urging landowners to take extra precautions before lighting up.
Residents use burn-offs to remove grass, stubble, weeds, and undergrowth to maintain and prepare their properties.
While the practice is encouraged, landowners are reminded to register any planned burn-offs and ensure regulations and applicable local laws are followed.
An online registration reduces spikes in the number of calls to Triple Zero (000) and unnecessary callouts for firefighters.
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Triple Zero Victoria COO Nicole Ashworth encouraged residents to plan ahead and register their burn-off online.
“When someone calls 000 to report seeing smoke, we can (then) confirm if it's recorded on the burn-off register," Ms Ashworth said.
“So, check the weather, plan ahead, and notify us online through the Fire Permits Victoria's website (which) allows our call-takers to focus on emergency calls.”
Acting CFA chief officer Garry Cook said the Fire Permits Victoria website was the preferred platform for community members to register their burns.
“By registering your burn-off, it allows emergency services to verify the fire is not an emergency, manage fire risk effectively, and avoid placing unnecessary strain on local brigades,” Mr Cook said.
“In 2024, over 19,084 volunteer hours were utilised responding to incidents involving escaped burn-offs.
“Our message is clear – please don’t leave your burn-off unattended.
“We ask landowners have enough people and water on hand to monitor, contain, and extinguish their burn-off safely and consistently monitor wind conditions before and after the burning day.”
An immediate burn-off (within 2 hours) can be registered by calling 1800 668 511; however, early online registration is preferred.
More information can be found at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/burnoff
Registration of burn-offs can be made at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify
