CFA urges household clean-ups as worst fire season ever begins

Alex de Vos
The worst fire season on record is threatening life and property around Geelong and the Surf Coast, according to Country Fire Authority.
CFA region seven chief Bob Barry urged residents to begin preparing for bushfire as the authority announceD the beginning of annual fire restrictions this week.
Mr Barry said increased temperatures, below-average rain and high to medium fuel loadings had left the region more susceptible to bushfire than in previous years.
“Put these elements together and it will be a critical fire year,” Mr Barry said.
“A few years ago we wouldn’t bring on fire restrictions until a week before Christmas but what we’re finding is that with these drier conditions we have to start the season earlier.”
Mr Barry identified the Otways and Brisbane Ranges as the CFA’s “biggest threats” in the region.
He urged residents to take immediate action to prevent fires around their homes.
Mr Barry said property owners should:
• remove fine fuels – “anything thinner than a human finger”;
• clear any organic debris from around homes;
• keep lawns and excess grass mowed;
• ensure any fire-fighting equipment was ready for use;
• ensure adequate personal protective gear was available; and
• put a fire-safety plan in place.
“We can’t control the weather but we have a bit of control over the community and we need them to understand their environment and be prepared,” Mr Barry said.
“The majority of fires are caused by humans but it’s impossible to have a fire truck on every doorstep.”
Mr Barry said anyone wanting more information about developing a fire-safety plan should contact their local fire brigade or the regional office on 5277 1499.