Before the Fire Danger Period is declared, works will occur to reduce fire risks on public and private properties, with residents reminded they play a crucial role in these efforts.
Council chief executive Geoff Rollinson said the region’s rainfall in August, combined with potentially warmer temperatures in September and October, was of concern.
“(It) will provide ideal conditions for potential fire risks, including dry, overgrown weeds,” he said.
“We all play a part in reducing our fire risk, especially as we head into October and November.”
To reduce risks, council staff will undertake slashing of council-managed roadsides and properties to reduce vegetation growth.
Staff will also spray roadside weeds, and undertake fire hazard inspections to identify properties that need to be cleared of fire risks.
The council will work with VicRoads to reduce fuel loads on properties and roadsides it manages, and encouraged residents to remove potential risks from their property.
“You can never anticipate when a fire is going to occur,” Mr Rollinson said.
“Whether you live in a farming area or residential street, it is important to plan ahead and be ready for the fire season.”
Farmers or large landowners can remove excess weeds and dry grass, maintain fire breaks, ensure proper haystack storage, install firefighting equipment and put a fire plan in place.
Small property owners can clear gutters, remove overhanging branches from beside housing, have an emergency fire evacuation plan and install fire extinguishing equipment.
For more fire management information, visit gsc.vic.gov.au/fires
16°C