CFA warns no burn offs

By Jed Lanyon

Despite some cooler conditions recently the CFA warns that the fire risk remains dangerous across much of the state for Friday 5 April.

The CFA state that any fire that starts will likely take hold and create significant challenges for fire fighters with potential property damage.

Until fire restrictions are lifted, fire danger period restrictions apply despite it being April.

The CFA said that they will inform people when fire restrictions are lifted, but until then people’s behaviour in relation to fire should remain unchanged.

Acting Deputy Chief Officer Rohan Luke said there were significant risks at play this Friday 5 April and into the weekend.

“Although we have had a few cooler days recently, it doesn’t mean the risk isn’t still there so we can’t become complacent,” he said.

“Much of the state is still very dry, meaning if a fire was to break out it would be difficult to bring under control. This Friday (5 April) is especially of concern with dry, warm and windy conditions especially in the West and South West of the state.”

“With the fire danger period still in effect for the whole of Victoria, we’re asking all landowners to remain vigilant if planning to burn off, even within permit conditions.”

“Landowners conducting burn offs over the next few days need to ensure they have obtained a permit and comply with the conditions. Ensure the burn off is adequately resourced, extinguished and patrolled so that the burn off does not escape under forecast weather conditions for Friday.”

The CFA advises residents to download the VicEmergency app - allow push notifications for warnings, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans.