CFA Outer Metro Norwest Area is advising residents that the Fire Danger Period (FDP) for the municipalities of Wyndham, Melton, Macedon Ranges, Hume, Mitchell, Moorabool and Whittlesea has commenced Monday 17 November 2008 and will remain in force until 1 May 2009.

Two consecutive months of below average rainfall and warmer than average Spring temperatures informed CFAs decision on a mid-November start to the Fire Danger Period.

During the FDP, fires cannot be lit in the open air without a permit. CFA Manager Community Safety, James Fox, said people should become familiar with what restrictions apply.

“Some fires need a permit, and others are only allowed in specific conditions,” he said. “Fires to burn off grass, undergrowth or weeds must be accompanied by a permit—issued by the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer.

“Barbeques and fires for cooking and warmth, however, do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces, within limits of wind speed and clearance perimeter, and are to be supervised at all times,” he said.

“Illegal fires are often lit without consideration of weather conditions and do not have the required controls in place to manage the fire,” Mr Fox added.

Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of up to $5,500 or 12 months imprisonment.

The FDP and Total Fire Ban is explained in more detail with the Can I or Can’t I? brochure, downloadable from CFA’s web site (www.cfa.vic.gov.au).

For information on bushfire planning, call the Victorian Bushfire Information line on 1800 240 667 or visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au

Source: Media Release from the Manager of Community Safety, James Fox