Heatwave ringing holiday fire alarm

Alex de Vos
An “unusual” spate of hot weather has sparked fears of a major bushfire in the Geelong region.
Country Fire Authority’s John Mealia said “scorching” temperatures so late in the season suggested a wildfire was imminent.
He urged households and visitors to have emergency plans in place as visitors prepare to flock to the region for school holidays and Easter.
Below-average rain in February and the first half of March has increased the fire risk.
“We have all the ingredients right now for a major bushfire – high temperatures, hot winds and extremely dry conditions,” Mr Mealia said.
He was concerned a milder-than-usual February might have given residents a false sense the fire season was over.
“The fire season is still right on top of us, which is unusual for this time of year.”
He urged residents and holidaymakers heading to the Surf Coast over Easter to be ready to implement fire plans.
“We’re also suggesting anyone coming down on the weekends to log onto the CFA website to find out what they should do to prepare for a fire,” Mr Mealia said.
“The rule of thumb is to avoid travelling during the hottest part of the day and near high-risk places such as vegetated areas.”
Mr Mealia said residential blocks backing onto bush or grassland were particularly dangerous during bushfires.
“Many people don’t realise the danger they face and the speed of wildfire when it is fuelled by dry grass and scrub,” Mr Mealia said.
“One of our greatest concerns is holidaymakers staying in houses where fire prevention methods aren’t in place.
“We’re urging people to be careful, to be vigilant and to make sure they’re prepared.”
Weather forecasters expect temperatures around 30 degrees over the next five days.