The fire danger period for Mitchell Shire will begin at 1am on Monday, December 19.
Restrictions already apply across parts of Victoria and Country Fire Authority, CFA, will introduce further fire danger period for municipalities in coming weeks, based on assessments of the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and conditions.
The return of a La Niña weather pattern has led to widespread rainfall and flooding in parts of the state, particularly in October, but authorities have warned communities not to become complacent about the increasing fire risk this season.
The CFA’s Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022-23 fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities.
Based on the latest outlook, the fire season is expected to be normal in Victoria, except for parts of central, north east and eastern Victoria where the potential is below normal.
CFA District 12 assistant chief fire officer Rob van Dorsser said grass and fine fuels were starting to dry off very quickly across the region, which meant there was an increased risk of fast-moving grassfires.
“Widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high fuel loads across the region and we can expect to see significant grassfires to start the fire season,” he said.
“The combination of drying fuels and the amount of grass that we’re seeing in paddocks makes it a high risk for the area.
“The community should be reminded that the fire season has arrived in our area and to take caution when dealing with fire and items that can cause a fire.”
While firefighters are preparing for the bushfire season, they are urging the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.
Residents in Mitchell Shire should take the opportunity ahead of the fire danger period to conduct safe private burn-offs to reduce fuel loads and clean up their property.
If burning off to clean up a property, people need to notify authorities at the Fire Permits Victoria website at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au, or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.
No burning off is permitted during the Fire Danger Period without a permit to burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
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Victorians can find out ‘Can I or can’t I? or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.