Victorian fire season begins amid concerning predictions

FIRE authories have officially declared the start of this year’s fire season in Victoria.

Anticipated El Niño weather patterns have led to predictions of a summer that’s even hotter and drier than those of recent years.

The first Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the 2023-34 fire season began on October 9, specifically for the areas within Wellington and East Gippsland Shire councils.

This decision follows an unusually hot and dry spring, with forecasts indicating even warmer conditions on the horizon.

District 7 encompasses Geelong, Surf Coast, the Bellarine, among other areas.

District 7 assistant chief fire officer Brendan Lawson said while the Geelong region had not yet officially entered an FDP, the rising temperatures and drier weather had started to influence fire activity.

“When burning off in temperate conditions, winds can quite quickly escalate the situation if you’re not clued in on the conditions.

“After three wet and stormy La Niña summers, we want to make sure that everyone living in bushfire-prone areas has done all they can to prepare.”

He stressed the importance of residents getting their properties ready and formulating a plan.

“It’s crucial that people prepare and have a bushfire survival plan,” he said.

As the season progresses, the CFA will declare additional FDPs across various Victorian municipalities.

Decisions will take into account several factors including local rainfall, grassland curing rates, and specific regional conditions.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said collective responsibility would be important over the summer months.

While crews are ready to respond and support communities this bushfire season, fire safety is a shared responsibility and we ask Victorians to prepare and know their local risks.

“We are asking anyone burning off in the next two weeks before the official FDP begins to be very careful.

“Take this opportunity ahead of the FDP to clean up your property, prepare your bushfire plan with your family and download the VicEmergency app.”

For those considering burn-offs, it is essential to notify the authorities. This can be done online through the Fire Permits Victoria website or by phoning ESTA on 1800 668 511.