Assistant Chief Fire Officer Aaron Kennedy said reducing forest fuels meant fires were less intense, making it more likely that firefighters could contain bushfires before they spread and impact people, property and the environment.
‘‘Planned burning is a vital part of work that FFMVic and the CFA undertake to reduce the impact of bushfires,’’ Mr Kennedy said.
‘‘Victoria is a bushfire-prone state and during the past two years it has experienced below-average rainfall and extended periods of high temperatures.
‘‘That’s why the recent rainfall and cooler periods are so important for planned burning.
‘‘As a result of the underlying dryness and the extended fire season, the window of opportunity to undertake burning may be limited across much of the region.’’
This autumn FFMVic plans to ignite about 80 burns totalling 67000ha in the region if weather and forest conditions are suitable.
Priority burns will be ignited near communities including Baranduda, Beechworth, Cheshunt, Jamieson, Tallangatta, Eskdale, Marysville, Kinglake and Toolangi.
‘‘Surrounding communities may see and smell smoke, and some roads and forest areas may be closed for public safety while these burns are being undertaken,’’ Mr Kennedy said.
‘‘We understand it is concerning for people to see smoke soon after an active bushfire period, however, it’s vital that we take every opportunity to burn.’’
●For the latest information about when planned burns are happening near you visit: www.vic.gov.au/plannedburn, download the VicEmergency app or phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800226226.
The Planned Burns Notification System (PBNS) is an opt-in system and can send you an SMS or email message prior to a burn being carried out, and when it is in progress. To register, go to www.vic.gov.au/plannedburn
Callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment can phone VicEmergency Hotline via the National Relay Service on 1800555677.
●For more information on the Victorian Government’s approach to bushfire risk management, visit www.delwp.vic.gov.au/safer-together