Total Fire Ban issued for Geelong region.

WITH “catastrophic” and “extreme” weather conditions expected for tomorrow (Wednesday, February 28), a Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared for the Central (including the Geelong region), Wimmera, Mallee, South West, Northern Country and North Central districts.

Communities in the state’s west are being urged to remain on high alert, with a “catastrophic” Fire Danger Rating also being declared for the Wimmera.

During a TFB, no fire can be lit in the open air or remain alight from 12.01am to 11.59pm on the day of the TFB.

Tomorrow’s conditions are expected to be hot and windy with dry lightning predicted in western and central parts of Victoria tomorrow afternoon.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said tomorrow’s conditions, along with the existing bushfires, represented a significant risk to the community.

“Tomorrow’s conditions will put you and your families lives at risk if a fire starts and takes hold.

“Be prepared for fire, monitor conditions and know where to get information so you can make good decisions about your safety.”

“Don’t wait for an official warning before you leave, emergencies can start quickly and threaten lives and homes within minutes.”

For more information, head to cfa.vic.gov.au

Victorians are encouraged to keep up to date with the latest information, using more than one source. They include:

– ABC local radio, commercial and designated radio stations of Sky News

– The VicEmergency App

– The VicEmergency website www.emergency.vic.gov.au

– The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226

– CFA or VicEmergency Twitter or Facebook

When conditions are smoky outside, the Environment Protection Authority Victoria, recommends several actions, including:

– Keeping windows and door shut

– Switching air conditioners to recirculate

– Taking a break from smoky conditions

– Airing out your house once the smoke has cleared

– Look out for children, older people and others at risk, and

– Keep pets, and their bedding, inside if possible

To keep up to date on air quality, head to epa.vic.gov.au