Conditions Worse Than Ash Wednesday, Fire Services Warn
After enduring more than four days of above 40 degree temperatures last week, and in it's 12th year of drought, Victoria is extremely vulnerable to fires ahead of more extreme conditions later this week - conditions worse than Ash Wednesday.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting temperatures in the mid 40's right across Victoria for Saturday with strong winds and extreme low relative humidity – extreme fire weather.
Victoria's three fire chiefs are appealing to all Victorians to be prepared and have a plan in place as we progress through the first week of February, traditionally Victoria’s warmest month.
“We are again heading into extreme fire conditions. We need the community to understand there will be no respite from these sorts of conditions and they need take critical steps to ensure they are prepared,” said Country Fire Authority State Duty Officer Allan Rankin.
“Make sure you and your family have your Bushfire Survival Plan ready and know what you will do if a fire threatens. Being prepared could save your life,” said Mr Rankin.
Department of Sustainability and Environment State Duty Officer Caroline Douglass said forecasted conditions mean that any fire that starts is extremely challenging for firefighters to tackle, especially those in remote areas.
“Victoria’s fire services will be working together to keep a close watch on conditions. The recent high temperatures have compounded what is already an issue for the fire services. There is high fuel loads and we have unprecedented dryness across all parts of Victoria,” said Ms Douglass.
“We urge people who are considering travelling or spending time in the outdoors to prepare adequately and check fire restrictions and conditions well in advance.”
The fire services are also appealing for the community’s help in preventing and reporting fires.
“Take responsibility for your actions - you do not want to be responsible for starting a fire. Be aware of what is going on around you,” said Mr Rankin.
Metropolitan Fire Brigade Chief Officer Tony Murphy said recent fires in the outer metropolitan areas of Melbourne have highlighted just how dry it is across the whole state.
"Victorians living in Melbourne's urban fringe areas need to be especially vigilant about the threat of grass and scrub fires during the onset of hot weather," he said.
Important steps to take to avoid the threat of fire include:
• Ensure your property is adequately prepared;
• Adhere to any Total Fire Ban or fire restrictions;
• If travelling, listen to ABC Local Radio or community radio station;
• For bushfire information, check the Fireready website or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667;
• Report any suspicious behaviour to Crimestoppers.
