Country Fire Authority (CFA) is urging Victorians to take extra precaution while burning-off ahead of the Fire Danger Period (FDP) to prevent penalties and reduce the strain on emergency services.
Last year, CFA responded to 819 callouts for escaped burn-offs between January and December, with 396 incidents occurring in September, October, and November alone.
This troubling trend occurs to be ongoing in 2024, with CFA already having responded to 37 incidents between September 1 and 20.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the number was increasingly high and highlighted the widespread impact escaped burn-offs have.
“We are aiming for a significant reduction in escaped burn-off incidents this season as we head towards the FDP,” he said.
“Last year’s numbers, especially during Spring, placed an unnecessary strain on CFA crews, neighbouring properties, and the community.
“Letting a burn-off escape during the FDP can result in severe penalties, including heavy fines and liability for damages caused.”
Under the CFA Act, penalties for allowing a burn-off to escape during a declared FDP can include fines up to $23,710, 12 months of imprisonment, or both. The penalty is doubled if an escape occurs on a Total Fire Ban Day.
Before conducting a burn-off, it’s important to ensure compliance with CFA regulations and local council laws, and to notify neighbours if your activity will produce fire and smoke.
In addition to following regulations, it’s important to check the weather forecast for the day of the burn and the days that follow, to establish a fire break by clearing at least three meters of flammable material around the area.
Lastly, remember to notify Triple Zero Victoria before beginning your burn.
Register online through the Fire Permits Victoria website, or if you wish to start your burn-off immediately, or do not wish to utilise the online form, you may register your burn-off by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.
Complete the Burn off Notification Form and email the form to burnoffs@triplezero.vic.gov.au.
