Be alert but not alarmed

RESIDENTS are warned not to be alarmed if they spot smoke today, as crews undertake planned burns in Gruyere, Toolangi and Noojee.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) and Parks Victoria are currently undertaking a 39-hectare planned burn in Gruyere to reduce potential fuel for bushfires.
VicForests may also be igniting planned burns in areas near Toolangi and Noojee, just past Powelltown as part of its coupe regeneration process.
DEPI fire management officer John Van De Paverd said that the Yarra Ranges and surrounds need to be prepared for fire risk at all times.
“We do our best to reduce the impacts of burning on communities and stakeholders but ultimately the decision to burn is always driven by the need to reduce the risk of bushfires to people, property and communities,” he said.
“Victoria’s weather is always changing and we need to take the opportunity to reduce fuel loads whenever conditions are safe to do so.”
He said the Gruyere burn is taking place at Briarty Hill in Gruyere, though smoke may be visible from Coldstream, Yering and along the Warburton Highway.
Mr Van De Paverd said that people who may be experiencing symptoms associated with smoke exposure should seek medical advice or call Nurse-on-Call on 1300 606 024.
For more information on planned burns that are scheduled or under way, visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/burnsmap or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.