THE Fire Danger Period will wrap up on Tuesday for most of the shires in the south-west.
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CFA operations manager for district 5, Andrew Barry, said fire restrictions would end for Warrnambool City Council, Moyne Shire and the Southern Grampians Shire at 1am on May 1.
But Mr Barry said before burning off people need to check with their municipality for any By Law restrictions.
Mr Barry said the easing of restrictions would allow people to burn garden litter including branches and leaves that had accumulated over summer.
“There have been episodes of very strong winds so we expect that there will be a number of people wanting to burn off,” he said.
“We urge everyone who wishes to burn to take precautions.”
Mr Barry said people needed to have water on hand to be able to put out any fires that needed to be extinguished.
“Fires still need to be monitored by a capable person who is able to extinguish a fire should it be needed,” he said.
“The current conditions will still allow a fire to escape if it is not correctly cleared around.” Mr Barry said anyone burning off needed to contact the CFA on 1800 668 511 and register their burn.
He warned anyone who lit a fire in dangerous conditions, including strong winds, hot weather and flammable vegetation, which caused a fire that endangered lives or property would be guilty of an offence which would be enforced.
Mr Barry also thanks CFA staff, volunteers and their families for their commitment over the summer fire season.
“Also thank you to members of the public who provided information and assistance to enable CFA members to complete their duties,” he said.
“This was an extremely busy fire season that started on the December 13 last year and we are still finalising the Cobden Peat fire,” he said.
“(It’s) an amazing effort.”
Mr Barry encouraged anyone wanting to become a CFA member to contact CFA headquarters or their local brigade.
“CFA welcomes members from all walks of life,” he said.
He said volunteers were educated in an adult training environment and provided with protective equipment and clothing. He said if anyone had any questions they should speak to their local CFA members or contact CFA headquarters on 5551 1500.