Be fire safe this winter

Wyndham City is encouraging the community to ensure they follow the local laws around lighting fires outside and using indoor wood heaters this winter.

Mayor Cr Josh Gilligan said the number of illegal burns reported to Council this year had already doubled compared to the same time last year.

“It is illegal to burn off in any residential area, so any outdoor fire in urban areas needs to be confined to a small monitored fire pit or a barbecue – essentially it can only be for the purpose of cooking or warmth,” Cr Gilligan said.

“Also, the burning of waste can be harmful to both your health and the environment, due to the toxic fumes and pollution released by plastics, coated papers and other material.”

“Pollution from wood smoke also has the potential to be harmful to people and the environment if the right wood is not used.”

“When using your indoor wood heater make sure you select dry and untreated wood, so it does not cause pollution or damage the health of others around you.”

“You must also maintain your wood heater by ensuring it is inspected and cleaned regularly.”

“As wood heaters and open fires have a significant impact on air quality and contribute to pollution, please consider minimising the use of wood fire heaters unless necessary.”

Residents can remove rubbish from their property by booking a hard waste collection. Every resident, whether they are a renter or a homeowner, are entitled to three free hard and green waste collections per year. To book visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/bookhardwaste  

The Refuse Disposal Facility (municipal tip), on 470 Wests Road, Werribee is open to public and commercial operators from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. A range of items can be dropped off there for free including batteries, cardboard, electrical waste, paint and excess recyclables. Discounts apply for the disposal of green waste material.