VICTORIAN FIRE DANGER SEASON TO BEGIN OCTOBER 5

By Jessica Dempster

Victoria’s Fire Danger Period will begin next week in parts of the State’s southeast, with restrictions starting at 1am on Monday, October 5.

The restrictions will apply in Wellington and East Gippsland shires.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan says the season is beginning two weeks earlier than last year, with exceptionally dry conditions and an above-average fire risk in East Gippsland.

CFA says high fuel loads and low soil moisture have increased the risk, despite some areas appearing green following overnight dew and light rain.

Residents are being urged to prepare properties by clearing dry grass, leaves and other flammable material, and completing permitted private burn-offs before restrictions begin.

Burn-off activities should be registered through the Fire Permits Victoria website at firepermits.vic.gov.au/notify, while farmers can find legal guidelines and practical advice at cfa.vic.gov.au/farms.