Fire Danger Period to begin in the south-west

THE City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire, and the Borough of Queenscliffe will be subject to fire restrictions as the Fire Danger Period (FDP) begins in the CFA’s south-west region.

Beginning from Monday, November 25, the period follows a drier-than average autumn and winter.

Victoria’s west and southwest are facing an increased fire risk as summer approaches, with dead and dry plant material making it easier for fires to ignite and spread.

CFA deputy chief officer for the south west region Adrian Gutsche said with an increased fire risk, now was the time to take action and be prepared.

“While we’ve had some recent rain, we are concerned this has caused additional growth in surrounding vegetation, and will soon dry out, adding to the underling fire risk.

“We’re asking people to keep an eye out on the VicEmergency App and CFA website, to be aware of the fire danger ratings and to know what their plan is should a fire event arise.

“If you can take the time this week to finalise preparing your properties, we strongly suggest you do so, whether that is reducing vegetation around your property or cleaning your gutters.”

FDP’s are declared at a different time for each municipality in the lead up to the fire season, depending on a range of conditions.

CFA’s 52,000 members are ready to support communities this fire season, but are urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires across the state.

Residents in the south west are asked to take the opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up their properties and to conduct safe burn-offs where possible.

Authorities must be notified of burn-offs at the Fire Permits Victoria website.

Burning off within the FDP without a Permit to Burn is not permitted and strict conditions apply with liability sitting with the permit holder.

It is expected the period will come to an end for the south-west on March 1, 2025.

For more information on the regulations surrounding the FDP, head to cfa.vic.gov.au