Autumn planned burns begin

FOREST Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) and the CFA have started planned burning across Victoria to reduce bushfire risk for local communities and the environment.

FFMV chief fire officer Stephanie Rotarangi said FFMV and the CFA began the burns across Victoria when and where conditions were suitable.

“Throughout Autumn, you may see and smell smoke from these planned burns, and some roads and parks may close.

“We will be working closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions, such as humidity, temperature and wind speed, and will only carry out burns when the conditions are suitable.

“Working with the CFA is a vital part of our planned burning program to make sure that we are using local knowledge to manage bushfire risk together to deliver maximum benefit to the community, “Ms Rotarangi said.

CFA chief officer Steve Warrington said CFA and FFMV crews would be working side by side to conduct planned burns as part of the Safer Together approach.

“This will see us concentrate on burns and other fuel reduction works that cover both public and private land.

“By doing this, we combine a range of expertise that benefits our planned burning program and means we are making our communities safer together.

Dr Rotarangi thanked the community for its understanding while this important work was completed.

“We understand that smoke from planned burns may cause concern for some people, but it’s important we take every opportunity while conditions are right to reduce bushfire risk,” she said.

For the latest information about when planned burns are happening near you, head to ffm.vic.gov.au/plannedburn, download the VicEmergency app or phone the VicEmergency hotline on 1800 226 226.