The Barwon South West faces an increased fire risk leading into summer as the region prepares to enter the Fire Danger Period (FDP).
The FDP will begin in the City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire, Borough of Queenscliffe, and Golden Plains Shire (District 15) at 1am on Monday, November 25.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) South West Region deputy chief officer Adrian Gutsche said the CFA would be ready to respond and support the community following a drier-than-average autumn and winter.
“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,” he said.
“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 underlying fire risk.
“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 clearing your gutters.”
No burn-offs will be permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which people can apply for on Fire Permits Victoria’s website.
Lighting fires without a permit could bring a penalty of more than $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
Visit cfa.vic.gov.au for more information about the FDP and how to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season.
