Fire Restrictions Terminating from 22nd March 2010

Region 14 Operations Manager Rohan Luke said the decision was made in consultation with local councils and brigades and reflected the changed on-ground conditions.

“The heavier than expected rains and much cooler weather informed CFAs decision to declare an early end to the Fire Danger Period,” Mr Luke said.

“This decision will allow rural landholders to undertake burning off of weeds, grass or undergrowth on their properties without the need for a council permit. This is an early opportunity for them to start cleaning up and preparing their properties for next Summer.

“It’s advised, however, that property owners contact their local council in the first instance as local laws on burn-offs do apply, even outside of the declared Fire Danger Period,” he said.

Mr Luke said that burn-offs should also be registered with the VicFire Burn-off notification line (1800 668 511) and that property owners should:

 ·         notify neighbours of their intention to burn

 ·         check the weather forecast for the day of the burn and a few days afterwards

 ·         check the fuel moisture conditions; and

 ·         ensure there are enough resources on hand to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively.”

Mr Luke added the Department of Sustainability and Environment would also be looking to undertake controlled burns in the region in the coming weeks.

“The DSE have indicated there will be several burns in the region to take advantage of the milder weather so we’re asking residents to be mindful of that if they see smoke,” he said.

DSE burns information:  www.dse.vic.gov.au > Fire and Other Emergencies > Planned Burns

 CFA Fire Management information: On the Land: Agricultural Fire Management Guidelines. Fire management advice for people living and working on rural properties and for those new to farming. Available at www.cfa.vic.gov.au.

Further Information;

For information on Fire Restrictions during the declared Fire Danger Period see:

Can I, Can't I Brochure

On Total Fire Ban Days special restrictions apply and permits for burning are not valid on these days.

For full information about fire restrictions and permits please visit:

http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/restrictions/about.htm

BURN OFF NOTIFICATIONS

At any time when you plan on lighting a fire that may come to the attention of the fire services you are asked to notify Burnoff Notification  Line. This helps to prevent un-necessary despatch of fire appliances.

  ESTA Telephone: 1800 668 511 (For burn offs only)                                          

Email burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au  

Facs: 03 5337 3501

or follow this link: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/documents/Burn-off_Notification_Form.doc