WANGARATTA has been warned to prepare for an increased grassfire risk when its fire danger period commences in mid–December.
Fire restrictions are set to be enacted from 1am on December 13, with above average rainfall throughout the North East during the winter and spring months resulting in strong pasture growth in paddocks and along roadsides heading into summer.
According to CFA District 23 assistant chief fire officer Stewart Kreltszheim, grassfires and other shorter–duration fires would become increasingly likely as the days become hotter, drier and windier.
"Conditions through the last fire season are similar to what we're expecting this year, and during those months we saw significant grass fires in the north and west of the state," he said.
"Good spring rain and warm conditions are combining to produce bumper crops in the northern parts of District 23 and grass growth that has not been seen in decades.
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"As the grass and bush dry out, the warmer weather, increased yield and potential fuel will mean the fire potential is heightened – reducing fuel loads in these areas will ensure if a fire does break out, it has less chance of taking hold or spreading.
A/CFO Kreltszheim said CFA, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) crews were working to prepare for bushfire season, but requested the community use common sense and begin preparing their properties themselves.
The fire danger period is also set to be closely watched by members of Victoria Police, who this week launched Operation Safeguard in an effort to monitor fire risk and reduce instances of arson and recklessly lit fires.
Last financial year, 21 offences of recklessly causing a bushfire and 12 offences for intentionally causing a bushfire were recorded across the state, a record which was of considerable concern to assistant commissioner state emergencies and support command Michael Grainger.
"Now is not the time to be complacent – summer in Victoria means the risk of fire is imminent – in hot, dry and windy conditions, fires can start quickly, are fast–moving and can have devastating impacts," he said.
"While we do have people deliberately lighting fires in the community, what is of concern is the number of recklessly lit fires in recent years – we will be targeting those people who engage in reckless behaviour.
"Preventing bushfires is everyone's responsibility – we're asking the community to be mindful of their activities during the summer period and act responsibly – it could be your actions that result in a devastating bushfire, causing loss of life and property.
"Police will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was deliberate or a reckless action."
D23 A/CFO Kreltszheim said December 13 would mark the beginning of a zero–tolerance approach towards negligent fire behaviour, with individuals hoping to light fires required to carry a fire permit, which can be applied for by visiting firepermits.vic.gov.au.
"Out–of control burn–offs and unregistered burn–offs have already caused unnecessary callouts to brigades," he said.
"You should also check and monitor weather conditions and not burn off in windy conditions or if high winds are forecast – not only on the day of your burn but for the days afterwards.
"More information about burn–off restrictions specific to your area can be found by consulting your local council."
To remain updated with current fire restrictions, visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings–restrictions/fire–danger–period–restrictions, and to remain aware of what is allowed during periods of fire danger, visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings–restrictions/total–fire–bans–and–ratings/can–i–or–cant–i.
