Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) has announced it will take advantage of favourable weather and forest conditions to undertake planned burns across the region in the coming weeks to reduce the threat of bushfires to the community.
FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Andrew Morrow said planned burning was one of the most effective ways to reduce the impact bushfires might have on people, property and the environment.
“Reducing ground level fuels such as leaves, sticks, and fallen branches means fires are less intense and slower to spread, making it more likely that firefighters can keep bushfires small and contained before they pose a risk to communities,” he said.
“The wetter and cooler conditions this summer will mean communities can expect to see firefighters conducting planned burns if the weather and forest conditions are suitable and it is safe to do so.”
High priority burns are planned on public land across the Otways and the south west districts, including near Lorne, Anglesea, Kennett River and Wye River.
“People in communities across the region may see and smell smoke, and some roads and forests may be closed for public safety while these works are being undertaken,” Officer Morrow said.
“We know that smoke from planned burns may concern some people, and we work with communities and stakeholders to reduce smoke impacts as much as possible.”
“However, it’s important that crews take every opportunity to reduce fuel loads while conditions are suitable.”
FFMVic will work closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions such as humidity, temperature, and wind speed, only carrying out burns when conditions are safe to do so.
As well as burning, FFMVic crews will conduct mechanical works such as mowing, slashing, clearing, and creating and maintaining strategic fuel breaks to reduce bushfire risk.
To find out when and where planned burns are happening near you, go to www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns or call 1800 226 226.
