As we start an earlier fire season, CFA’s message to those in high-risk bushfire areas is clear – prepare your property.

A warmer spring is contributing to higher fire risk in parts of the state this season, according to the latest Spring Seasonal Outlook, which was released before the official confirmation of an El Nino dry season.

People can complete several simple tasks to reduce their risk this season, and now is the time to start taking action.

The CFA Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan, said CFA crews right across the state were making every effort to prepare for this year’s fire season, but they needed a collective community effort to reduce bushfire risk.

“Victoria is one of the most bushfire-prone areas in the world, so it’s vital for everyone to plan ahead,” Mr Heffernan said.

“All it takes is some basic maintenance such as clearing your gutters, picking up loose leaves and twigs, pruning tree branches so they aren’t overhanging the roof of your property, or even just keeping your lawn under 10cm tall.

“High rainfall and moisture levels over the past 12 months will have led to vegetation growth on private properties, so it’s important to maintain your property through spring and into fire season.”

Chief Officer Heffernan also encouraged everyone to sit down with their family or household to discuss and practice their bushfire survival plan together.

“CFA has all the information you need on our website to create a clear bushfire plan with your loved ones,” he said.

“If you already have one, blow the dust off it and go over it with your family. Practising your bushfire survival plan could save your family’s life.”

Victorians can learn more about how to prepare their property at cfa.vic.gov.au/prepare

For more about bushfire survival plans, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/bushfireplan

Take the following actions to prepare yourself and your property:

  • Move your winter woodpile away from the house or sheds;
  • Prune tree branches so they are not overhanging the roof or touching walls;
  • Clear your gutters;
  • Keep grass shorter than 10cm;
  • Remove leaves and twigs from around your property;
  • Test anything that is part of your fire plan, such as sprinklers, pumps and generators;
  • Register your burn-off by using the Fire Permits Victoria website at firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify, or call ESTA on 1800 688 511 and;
  • Make sure your household has a bushfire survival plan.