As warnings of an unusually hot and dry fire season continue to be issued, a zero-tolerance policy has this week been introduced for Moorabool.
Bacchus Marsh fire brigade group officer Gerry Lavery said it was already too late for burning off.
“Just clean your properties and listen to the news,” he said. “It’s going to be a busy season.”
During the zero-tolerance period, it will be illegal to start fires and undertake controlled burning.
Mr Lavery said that if the brigade was called to a deliberately or negligently lit fire during the fire danger period, firefighters were obliged to call the police.
People caught lighting fires can be fined up to $17,000 and imprisoned for three months.
“The rules are there,” Mr Lavery said. “Ignorance is never an excuse.”
Moorabool council’s fire prevention officers have issued more than 120 fire prevention notices in the lead-up to the fire season, advising residents of the work that needs to be done.
Throughout November, Melton residents are being encouraged to dispose of their garden waste at the Melton Recycling Facility at no cost.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the fire season was already well under way.
“Victoria has already experienced significant fire activity this year with [more than] 160 fires that have threatened lives, land and property,” she said. “Understanding the fire risk in your area is vital when preparing a plan of what to do if a fire starts.”
For more information about the fire danger period or how to prepare, visit emergency.vic.gov.au
