Fire agencies announce changes to fire danger periods

District co-ordinator Gerard James said all members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting their own hazard reduction burns as well.

“(Since) Monday, April 1, 2024, fire permits (have) no longer (been) required for the local government areas of Murray River Council, Edward River Council and the lower Half of Murrumbidgee Council areas and all other areas outside the BFDP,” James said.

“Even though a fire permit is no longer required, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority 24 hours before burning.

“Before lighting up, people should also have sufficient equipment on hand to control and contain the fire to their property and call 000 immediately should the fire escape their property.

“There is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment if they are not managed correctly.”

Mr James said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush and grass fires, even during autumn and winter.

“Local fire danger ratings will continue to be issued daily, giving the community an indication of their fire risk year-round,” he said.

“I urge all residents to take the threat of bushfire seriously and to prepare their families and home now.

“Your local fire station or fire control centre can provide advice on how to safely undertake hazard reduction work and how to best prepare yourself, your property and your family for the next bushfire season.

“The first thing you should do though is update your bushfire survival plan and discuss it with your household.”

You can notify the RFS of your intention to burn online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify

More information is also available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP

Victorian shires: Meanwhile, the Fire Danger Period for Campaspe Shire will finish at 1am on Monday, April 8, along with the Victorian shires of Gannawarra, Loddon and Yarriambiack.

While restrictions are lifting in these areas, the CFA still expects the grassfire risk to remain across Victoria over the next month, so people need to remain alert and prepared.

Residents are reminded that Total Fire Ban days may still occur so any fires that are lit must be able to be extinguished immediately.

CFA District 17 assistant chief fire officer Mark Gunning said reduced fuel loads across the Wimmera and southern Mallee had allowed an easing of restrictions.

“We’re urging everyone to stay safe, whether you’re living in or travelling to high bushfire risk areas,” he said.

“Please monitor the conditions on hot, dry and windy days, as we may still see some days of elevated fire risk.”

The end of the fire danger period will be an opportunity for some landowners to burn off again, however it’s important that residents check that local conditions are safe before undertaking these activities.

“You must still register your burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws, as well as EPA laws and applicable regulations,” Mr Gunning said.

“Registering your burn-off ensures that if smoke or fire is reported, the incident is cross-checked with our register, which prevents firefighters from unnecessarily responding.”

“When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire.”

Landowners can register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au or phone 1800 668 511.

If possible, landowners should also notify their neighbours and others nearby who may be sensitive to smoke so they can take necessary precautions.

Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s website.