Green waste to be binned or burned

THE Country Fire Authority’s fire danger periods are over, but for those clearing green waste from their garden or larger property while in isolation, there are things to be mindful of.

As the assistant chief fire officer of CFA District 15, covering Ballarat, and some of the Moorabool, Hepburn, Pyrenees, and Golden Plains Shire areas, Gavin Hope said residents cannot burn off rubbish in a built-up or city area.

“It needs to be taken to green waste disposal at the tip, put in your green waste bin, or you can burn off if you’re on a rural property,” he said.

“Apply similar precautions that you would in the summer. Make sure someone watches the fire, that you have some water available, make sure it’s clear and there’s no dry grass nearby.

“Check with your local shire if you’re in a built-up or suburban area. You’ve got to be on a farm or a rural five acres to burn off.”

Mr Hope said those planning to have a green waste burn off should tell their neighbours their plans, and contact the notifications number, 1800 668 511, to register with the Vic Fire Dispatch Centre.

This will ease public concerns if they do call 000, and limit the chance of the fire brigade responding on site.

“If you have it registered, the centre can let callers know there is a burn off, and not to worry,” he said.

“Keep an eye on the wind to make sure it won’t be windy over the next few days and have it thoroughly extinguished with water before summer comes back.

“Some people leave things smouldering all winter, they smoulder into spring and up they go.”

In built-up areas, the biggest fires homeowners can light are campfires or fire pits.

While spending more time at home during the pandemic period, Mr Hope also emphasised the importance of keeping an eye on action indoors.

“Everyone’s doing more cooking, so be careful in the kitchen and in general. Now it’s getting cold, be careful with drying clothes, and make sure your heaters and fireplaces are in good working order,” he said.

Based in the City of Ballarat, CFA District 15 reaches to the Melton side of Bacchus Marsh, up to Trentham, Daylesford, around to Clunes, Waubra, through Learmonth, Burrumbeet, Smythesdale, Linton, Mannibadar, Cape Clear, Napoleons, Buninyong and Ballan.