Forest Fire Management Victoria will take advantage of favourable weather and forest conditions to undertake planned burns across north-east Victoria in the coming weeks to reduce the threat of bushfires.
FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer Jarrod Hayse said planned burning was one of the most effective ways to reduce the impact bushfires had 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,” Mr Hayse 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 near Bright, Corryong, Kinglake, Marysville, Seymour and Wangaratta.
“People in these communities may see and smell smoke, and some roads and forests may be closed for public safety while these works are being undertaken,” Mr Hayse 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 works closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions — such as humidity, temperature and wind speed — and will only carry out burns when conditions are safe to do so.
The fuel-management program is underpinned by scientific evidence and local knowledge, including bushfire history, to make sure works are focused where they can be most effective.
As well as burning, FFMVic crews conduct mechanical works such as mowing, slashing, clearing, and creating and maintaining strategic fuel breaks to reduce bushfire risk.
FFMVic also works with Traditional Owners to deliver its fuel management program and supports aspirations to undertake cultural burning practices.
To find out when and where planned burns are happening, go to www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns or phone 1800 226 226.