THE CFA has urged residents across the North West to begin preparing for the upcoming fire season, as the warmer weather kicks in.
Last month, the fire authority attended more the 50 grass and scrub fires across the state, as temperatures rose and winds reached more than 100km/h.
On 15 September, brigades attended to an out of control burn off at Mount Cottrell.
Truganina Fire Brigade captain Colin Squires said crews were called to the incident just after 1.15pm where the fire had quickly spread to neighbouring properties, and burnt through about 20 hectares.
“This is an example of how quickly a change in wind can cause a fire to spread quickly through grass,” Mr Squires said.
“Across the North West Metro region there is a lot of grassland, right from Rockbank and through to the Diggers Rest and Toolern Vale areas.”
CFA North West Metro community education co-ordinator Mike Shaw said residents should never burn off on hot, windy days or leave burn offs unattended.
“To avoid brigades being called out unnecessarily by a neighbour or passer-by, tell your neighbours when you plan to burn-off and register the burn with the CFA on 1800 668 511,” he said.
Mr Shaw said a Bushfire Co-operative Research Centre’s report has found an increased potential for above-normal bushfire activity this fire season.
“Grassfires should not be underestimated; they can be extremely dangerous and cause death, trauma or serious injury,” Mr Shaw said.
“It is suggested that people start preparing their properties sooner rather than later.
He said householders should clean up around their yards to remove any dead branches, long grass or leaf litter and remove flammable items from deck or verandas.
For more information contact CFA District 14 Headquarters on 8746 1400 or see www.cfa.vic.gov.au.
