Early predictions by a Gippsland-based bushfire expert suggest the region is set to face an average fire season this summer, but residents are being urged not to become complacent.
Retired bushfire scientist David Packham said high rainfall meant there was enough moisture to have a “normal” bushfire season, predicting there would be fires, but “not disasters”.
“You can easily get a few weeks without any rain and an outburst of hot, dry winds. But with moisture around the place, we hope there won’t be big ones,” Mr Packham said.
“The Bureau (of Meteorology) is forecasting pretty accurately from four days out, so people should make themselves aware and listen to the bureau.”
Mr Packham said now was the time to “get the mowing going” as overgrown roadsides were “the number one threat to people” during bushfires.
“People overwhelmingly die outside buildings and a good proportion die on the roads because of roadsides,” Mr Packham said.
Country Fire Authority region 10 operations officer Peter Lockwood said the wet spring meant grass would grow long and eventually dry out, creating a “significant bushfire risk”.
“Now is the time to start considering cleaning out gutters, lowering the amount of grass and vegetation around the home, check your pumps and fittings and keep an eye on the weather,” Mr Lockwood said.
“Those burning off need to remain vigilant at all times, because escaped burn-offs do increase outside the fire danger period and put pressure on our brigades.”
Latrobe City Council will conduct fire prevention inspections from November and into the new year.
Residents who receive a fire prevention notice, but have struggled to clean up their properties following on from recent storms and rapid vegetation growth, can apply for an extension.
Due to State Government increases, the fine for failing to comply with a notice has increased to $1444, plus contractor costs for council to carry out the works.
Wellington Shire Council will also begin its inspections in November and will offer a free green waste disposal weekend at its tips and transfer stations on Saturday, 2 November, Sunday, 3 November and Monday, 4 November between 9am and 5pm.
