Prepare properties for fire season

CITY of Greater Bendigo officers are encouraging residents to get ready for summer by preparing their properties before the fire danger period is declared by the CFA.

They are warning that municipal fire prevention officers will be inspecting properties to ensure they are maintained in a fire-ready condition.

Municipal fire prevention officer Darren Masters said current weather conditions will cause spring grass growth to dry out quickly and become a fire risk.

“The recent weather has resulted in rapid grass growth and it’s important to start preparing your property now before the grass dries out and the fire danger period commences,” Mr Masters said.

“Some key actions for residents include keeping grass low around homes and sheds, clearing gutters of leaf litter, removing flammable items from decks and verandahs and cutting back overhanging branches.

“Properties that pose a fire danger risk with vegetation higher than 10 centimetres around dwellings can be issued with a Fire Prevention Notice.”

If property owners receive a notice, they must comply by treating an identified hazard within a defined period.

Mr Masters said this is typically three weeks from the date of inspection, to ensure works are completed before the summer peak.

“If property owners fail to comply with a Fire Prevention Notice the City can engage a contractor to undertake mitigation works,” he said.

“The cost of these works plus an administration fee will be passed on to the property owner.

“In some circumstances an infringement of 10 penalty units ($1976) will apply.”

Mr Masters said residents can apply for an extension if they are having difficulty completing works by the specified date.

The City’s fire prevention program takes place annually from October to February. Property inspections start in the northern and western parts of the municipality, before progressing towards southern areas.

Information about Fire Prevention Notices, requesting an extension or reporting a fire hazard on private land is available on the City’s website in the residents section.

Tips on how to prepare and maintain a property are available at cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property or by phoning 1300 002 642.