Victoria’s fire and emergency service agencies are urging community members to register their burn-offs as they prepare their properties for fire season.
Launched in 2020, the Fire Permits Victoria website is a one-stop-shop for Victorians to register burn-offs with authorities prior to the fire danger period (FDP) commencing, or to apply for a permit once the FDP has started.
While community members can still register their burns with Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by phoning 1800 668 511, using the Fire Permits Victoria website frees up ESTA call takers to focus on emergency calls.
Last fire season between October 25, 2021 and May 1, 2022, 85,224 burn-offs were registered or approved, including 18,776 through the Fire Permits Victoria website.
The fire danger period is already in place in Mildura Rural City Council, with several other northwestern shires to follow in the coming weeks.
People undertaking burn-offs prior to the FDP and those with permits during the FDP are reminded to follow fire and rescue services’ advice to keep fires safe:
• Follow regulations or laws set by CFA and your local council.
• Register your burn-off via the Fire Permits Victoria website (firepermits.vic.gov.au), or phone 1800 668 511.
• Notify neighbours if your activity will generate fire and smoke.
• Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind – on the day and coming days.
• Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials, around the burn.
• Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading; don’t leave it unattended.
• Make sure you properly extinguish your fire before you leave it.
• If your burn-off gets out of control, phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.