Time to get properties bushfire ready

Council is urging property owners to start preparing their properties for bush and grass fires ahead of the Fire Danger Period, with courtesy reminder letters to be sent out soon.

The Yarra Ranges is one of the highest risk bushfire areas in Victoria and it is the responsibility of property owners and Council to ensure the municipality is prepared for the bushfire season.

Courtesy letters will soon be sent to residents across the Yarra Ranges who received a Fire Prevention Notice last year, reminding them that it is the critical time to prepare properties for the upcoming fire season.

Yarra Ranges Mayor, Len Cox, said that reducing the risk of bush and grass fires starting and spreading was everyone’s responsibility.

“We live in a beautiful area, but we also happen to be in one of the most bushfire prone areas in the world,” Cr Cox said.

“The climate, geography and vegetation in the Yarra Ranges mean we have the potential for serious fires each summer, and we’re looking at an early start to the fire season.

“This is not only important to areas of the Yarra Valley such as Warburton, which has a high fire risk, but also our urban areas, where grassfires can easily start and spread.

“I encourage all of our residents to read about burning off in their area and how to best prepare their property to reduce their risk of a bush or grass fire spreading.”

CFA’s Manager of Community Safety for the North East Region, Tammy Garrett, said residents should always register their burn off with the ESTA on 1800 668 511 and check weather conditions before lighting a burn.

“Managing the bushfire risk is everyone’s responsibility,” she said. “The more residents do to clean up their properties now, the more it will help the community should there be fires in the local environment.

“Clean your property and prepare now for the fire season. Don’t leave it to the last minute when it may be too late.”

Cr Cox encouraged residents to get on the front foot and prepare their properties early.

“Clearing any excess vegetation and ensuring your property is fire ready won’t just prevent you receiving a Fire Prevention Notice or a fine, but it’ll also give you peace of mind that you’ve done your bit to reduce the risk of fire over the warmer months,” Cr Cox said.

“We’ve still got time before the fire season starts, but that time will be gone before we know it.

“We’ll be sending out courtesy letters soon as a gentle reminder for owners, so they can make the most burning off and our services before fire restrictions come in under the Fire Danger Period.”

Fire hazard inspections will take place in the coming months, along with Council’s annual roadside slashing program.

For information about the Fire Danger Period and other tips for preparing your property, visit cfa.vic.gov.au and Council's Getting Fire Ready page.