Fire restrictions announced in the northwest and west

The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin at 01.00am on Monday, November 4, for the following municipalities in CFA’s northwest and west regions:

• Swan Hill Rural City Council

• Buloke Shire Council • Gannawarra Shire Council

• Loddon Shire Council • Campaspe Shire Council

• Northern Grampians Shire Council

Following a drier-than-average autumn and winter, several areas in Victoria are facing an increased fire risk this summer due to a build-up of dead and dry vegetation, particularly in forested regions.

While CFA’s 52,000 members are well equipped to support communities, it's important for the community to understand that fire safety is a shared responsibility between fire services and the public.

CFA District 18 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Gavin Wright said it’s vital for everyone to be vigilant.

“Across much of the Northwest, the lack of consistent rainfall has left large areas of grass and vegetation highly flammable,” he said.

“The community needs to be aware of the heightened danger and take proactive steps to ensure their properties and families are prepared.

"The soil is very dry, and grass is curing faster than last year. We expect grasslands to fully dry within three weeks, increasing the fire risk in the region.

" Further Fire Danger Periods will be announced for other Victorian municipalities in the coming weeks and months based on rainfall, grassland curing rates, and local conditions.

Residents are urged to use the time before the FDP begins to clean up their properties. Landowners are encouraged to conduct safe private burn-offs where possible, ensuring they notify authorities in advance.