Community News

Burning off? Register first!

The Fire Danger Period has finished for Macedon Ranges Shire but the Newham CFA is reminding people that it is still important to remain vigilant. We do live in a high bushfire danger environment where serous fires do not just happen in summer. Please monitor the conditions on hot, dry and windy days, as we may still see some days of elevated fire risk. While the Fire Danger Period has officially come to an end, it is still important that residents check the local conditions are safe for any burn-off they were considering undertaking. You must register your burn-offs, check weather conditions and follow local council laws and regulations. Registering your burn-off ensures that if somebody reports smoke, the incident will be crosschecked with the burn-off register, which will then prevent volunteer firefighters being taken away from workplaces, families and potentially genuine emergencies. Landowners can now register their burn-off online at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au. Alternatively, you can register with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority(ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au. When conducting burn-offs, remain alert and always have resources on hand to extinguish the fire. Keep your burn off safe and legal:

• Check fire restrictions in your area and always register your burn at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au.
• Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind.
• To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand.
• Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn.• Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading.
• Never leave a burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration.
• If your burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately.