Spike in preventable incidents spurs fire risk warning

THE CFA is urging Victorians to take extra care this summer after vegetation fires jumped more than 50 per cent during the 2023-24 Fire Danger Period (FDP).

Between October 1, 2023, and April 1, 2024, CFA responded to 2145 vegetation fires including grass, bush and farmland across Victoria, compared to 1415 incidents in 2022/23.

This increase was accompanied by a 21 per cent rise in fire investigations, revealing many incidents were caused by avoidable factors.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said reducing fire risk this season was critical given the summer outlook for a hot and dry season ahead.

“Many of the incidents we investigated – such as escaped burn-offs and machinery-related fires – were preventable with proper preparation and compliance with fire safety regulations.

“Fires on Total Fire Ban days remained a major concern during the last FDP, with 449 incidents recorded.”

Of the 449 incidents, 21 per cent were caused by escaped burn-offs, 9 per cent by campfires, 8 per cent were deemed suspicious and 5 per cent were linked to machinery fires.

“Total Fire Ban days are declared to minimise the risk of fires starting and spreading, so it’s critical we see fewer avoidable incidents on these days,” Mr Heffernan said.

“Simple precautions like adhering to restrictions, planning ahead, and ensuring equipment is safe can help protect lives and property on these dangerous days.”

This warning comes as large parts of Victoria face an increased fire risk this summer, including the west, south-west, north-east, south-west Gippsland including Mornington Peninsula and Greater Melbourne.

The latest AFAC Seasonal Bushfire Outlook predicts the area with an increased risk of fire covers most of the western half of Victoria, including all or almost all of the City of Greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliffe, Surf Coast Shire and Colac Otway Shire.

AFAC chief executive officer Rob Webb said everyone could play an important role in bushfire safety by being prepared and staying alert to warnings and advice, regardless of where they lived or travelled to this summer.

“The dry winter and spring period across southern Australia mean the landscape is well primed for bushfires.

“Communities should be ready for bushfires and have a plan in place.

“We hope the rains come but it makes sense to plan as if they don’t.

“Local fire authorities will be monitoring bushfire risk this season so you can stay up to date and ready to act if there is an emergency.”

Mr Heffernan said the CFA was urging all Victorians to plan ahead, maintain their properties, and adhere to fire restrictions to help reduce the risk and protect their communities.

“Always check Fire Danger Ratings, make sure your machinery is in good working condition, and clear vegetation around your property to reduce the risk of fire spreading.

“Together, we can make a real difference this season and help protect what matters most.”

For more information on fire safety and preparation, head to cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare