THE CFA will continue to monitor fire and weather conditions on a week to week basis as they assess when fire danger period will officially kick off.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
CFA district five operations officer Paul Marshall said fire restrictions were not expected to be put in place for at least three weeks and it was probably on par with when restrictions were announced last year.
“With the rain we’ve had we’re more likely to have a high fire danger period,” he said.
Mr Marshall said the conditions were monitored weekly and any announcement was weather dependent.
He said now was the time for people to clean up around their eaves and gutters and to ensure that grass was mowed down.
Mr Marshall said anyone who had adjoining land where the grass was too high should contact their council.
He said it was also a timely reminder for people to make sure their smoke alarms were in working order.
Mr Marshall’s comments come as Corangamite Shire Mayor Jo Beard urged residents to clean their properties and make sure they met fire safety guidelines.
She said council staff would begin property inspections in the coming weeks.
“Forecasts show potential for an above average fire season in the west of the state in 2017-18,” she aid.
“A good clean-up before the fire season can make a huge difference to the survival of your home, as well as neighbouring properties that could be at risk if your land is overgrown.”
Cr Beard encouraged residents to be mindful of their neighbours who might need help if they’re elderly, unwell or have a big job that they can't cope with on their have own.
“Get rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and other vegetation around your house that can dry out and become kindling after only a week or two of hot weather,” she said.
“Look for areas where loose materials build up, such as gutters, under steps and decks, or around outbuildings.
“Cut back branches overhanging your home, and move woodpiles, rubbish and stored objects away from the house.”
Cr Beard said council officers would work with landholders to make sure their properties were ready for the fire danger period.