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Page Last Updated:
Wednesday, 9 September 2009 |
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News>Prepare now for fire season
| MEDIA RELEASE - 9 September 2009 | | With the fire season approaching, Shire of Melton residents are reminded that now is the time to prepare their property by cleaning up around the yard, mowing long grass, removing debris and cleaning out guttering.
Burning off is common on rural and farming properties outside of the declared Fire Danger Period to assist with fire prevention (the Fire Danger Period typically applies from November through to the end of April). No burning off is permitted at any time on properties under two hectares.
Melton Shire Council Mayor, Cr Renata Cugliari, reminded landholders considering burn-offs to prepare carefully and take the necessary precautions.
“Residents planning burn-offs should check the weather forecast for the day of the burn and a few days afterwards to ensure winds don’t exceed 10kph, check fuel moisture conditions and make sure there are enough resources on hand to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively,” Cr Cugliari said.
“Summer is just around the corner, so it is vital that landowners clean up around their properties now to ensure they’re prepared for the upcoming bushfire season,” the Mayor said.
Landholders are encouraged to register their burn-off on the VicFire Burn-off notification line on 1800 668 511.
Council will also be working closely with the CFA and other emergency services in responding to the findings of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission prior to this year’s fire season.
Commencing in October and continuing throughout the summer months, Council’s Fire Prevention Officer will inspect all properties in the Shire. Where necessary, a Fire Prevention Notice may be issued, which requires owners to take specific action. Failure to comply will result in Council carrying out work at the owner’s expense and may also result in Court prosecution. The maximum fine that can be imposed is $5,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
More information is available from www.cfa.vic.gov.au or Melton Shire Council’s Fire Prevention Officer on 9747 7200.
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