Vigilance call on fire safety

With the fire season getting closer, authorities are reminding people to clean up around their properties.

The annual Fire Action Week (October 23-30) is an opportunity for residents to think about “first risk”, prepare their properties and decide what to do if a fire starts nearby.

The CFA attended almost 4000 incidents in District 14, which includes Melton and Moorabool, in the six months to March 31 this year.

Melton council chief executive Kel Tori urged people to clean up around their properties, including removing weeds, firewood and other rubbish from around buildings and fence lines.

“With significant fire activity taking place year after year, threatening lives, land and property, understanding the fire risk in your area is vital when preparing a plan of what to do if a fire starts,” Mr Tori said.

“Fire Action Week is a timely reminder to be vigilant in ensuring that your property is fire safe and that you are prepared for the fire season.”

To prepare for the fire season, download the VicEmergency app to your mobile device, check fire danger ratings in your area and make plans for what you’ll do on hot, dry, windy days.

For information about fire safety, visit emergency.vic.gov.au. For more information, visit cfa.vic.gov.au or melton.vic.gov.au.