A Total Fire Ban has been declared for the Mallee and Wimmera today as an Extreme Fire Danger Rating has been forecast due to expected hot, dry and windy weather conditions.
Parts of Victoria, including Mildura, Cobram and Warracknabeal are forecast to reach 37 °C, with much of central and western Victoria expected to reach low to mid-30s.
On Extreme Fire Danger days, fires spread quickly and can be extremely dangerous. Act now to protect life and property. It is crucial that Victorians check their bushfire plans, and make sure all children and animals are included. For those making the most of the hot weather, reconsider travelling through bushfire risk areas.
In Total Fire Ban areas, no fire can be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight from 12:01am to 11:59pm today. While many parts of the state are not under a Total Fire Ban, on dry, windy days, you should not light a campfire, undertake burn-offs or activities that may generate sparks or embers.
Victorians are reminded that machinery can start grassfires. Check that any equipment used is free from faults and is fitted with a water fire extinguisher of at least 9 litres.
Northerly winds predicted across the state will elevate fire danger throughout the day. A late squally west to south westerly change will cross the state late on Saturday and into Sunday morning.
Quotes attributable to State Response Controller Tim Wiebusch:
“Victoria's emergency sector is well prepared and ready to respond on days like today, however we need Victorians to help by doing the right thing and following these restrictions. That means not lighting any fires or undertaking activities that may generate sparks or embers.
"People who have undertaken burn-offs in recent days as part of preparing for the bushfire season need to make sure these have been fully extinguished to avoid flare-ups in hot and windy conditions.
“Fires can impact you and your loved ones, so it’s important to be prepared and always have a plan in place that covers your household's circumstances and different scenarios.”
Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including:
• The VicEmergency app
• The VicEmergency website www.emergency.vic.gov.au
• Emergency broadcasters; ABC local radio, commercial and community radio stations, SkyNews
• The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
• CFA or VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter
