Parts of Indigo Shire to start Fire Danger Period

The north west of the Indigo Shire will be placed under the CFA Fire Danger Period (FDP) from Monday 16 November and property owners have been urged to prepare. CFA announced towns across the north west of the shire including Chiltern, Rutherglen and Barnawartha were declared under the danger period along with Moira, Strathbogie and Greater Shepparton council areas. Wangaratta, Benalla and Mansfield LGAs will be declared under the Fire Danger Period from 23 November. Local residents in these areas are encouraged to use the remaining time before the FDP begins to prepare their properties and complete any planned private burn-offs while conditions and regulations allow. This includes cleaning up dry grass, leaves, and other flammable materials, as well as completing safe private burn-offs while they are still permitted. Deputy Chief Officer for the North East region, Gavin Thompson, said heavy fuel loads were already leading to fires in the region. "We are starting to get fires spread through grasslands," Gavin said. "Warm temperatures, wind, and extremely low soil moisture means things are rapidly drying out and there is a significant risk of uncontrolled fires. "Residents in these areas should continue to prepare including burning off in a safe manner." CFA encourages residents to take practical steps now to reduce fire risk, including: • Removing long grass and excess vegetation around homes and outbuildings. • Cleaning leaves and debris from gutters. • Checking hoses, pumps and water supplies are operational. • Ensuring driveways and access tracks are suitable for emergency vehicles, with adequate width and clearance. • Developing and discussing a household bushfire plan. Residents are also reminded that leaving early remains the safest option on days of extreme fire risk. Community members are encouraged to download the VicEmergency app to receive warnings and emergency information relevant to their area. Those conducting burn-offs should notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling 1800 668 511. By registering your burn-off online, you allow emergency call takers to allocate more of their time taking calls from people who need emergency assistance immediately. No burning off is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn, which can be applied for through the Fire Permits Victoria website. For more information about fire safety and Fire Danger Period requirements, visit the CFA website. www.cfa.vic.gov.au

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