District 22 Operations Manager Tony Owen emphasised that although the FDP was coming to an end in some areas, it was important to remain vigilant.
Mr Owen said a zero tolerance policy would continue to be enforced for people responsible for illegal fires.
“Residents that wish to conduct burn-offs on their private properties need to follow some basic rules,” he said.
“Register your burn-offs first and foremost, check weather conditions and monitor the wind, and follow local council laws and regulations.”
Landowners can register their burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au
Mr Owen also highlighted the need for landowners to openly communicate with authorities and neighbours.
“As well as registering your burn-offs with ESTA, you need to alert your neighbours to the fact that they may see smoke on the set dates,” he said.
“CFA crews have been extremely busy this fire season and would like to avoid having to respond to false alarms because people are not registering their burn-offs.
“By registering your burn-off, when somebody reports that they’ve spotted smoke, the incident will be cross-checked with the burn-off register and prevent a CFA crew from having to respond to a false alarm that takes them away from family, friends, work and other potential emergencies.”
Whether registering a burn-off by phone or email, people should be prepared to give some basic information, including location, date, expected start and finish times, estimated size, and what they intend to burn.
“The burn-off line is very easy to use – the operators are friendly, and prompt you by asking the key questions,” Mr Owen said.
“When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.”
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