Victorians are being urged to prepare for an increase in fire activity across large parts of the state this summer, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer, released today.
A lack of rainfall across most of western and northeastern Victoria, parts of greater Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and southwest Gippsland has resulted in more fuels available and an increased chance of fires in these areas.
In addition, a dry 18-months in southwest Victoria has resulted in more fuel within forests, making it easier for fires to start and spread.
The rest of the state is forecast to be at a normal risk, which means fires can still occur and fast running fires are possible on hot, dry and windy days.
In addition, the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a higher chance of warmer maximum day and night temperatures over summer.
Victoria’s emergency services remain well prepared for the potential of fires, with at least 54 dedicated aircraft positioned across the state as part of the core fleet for the higher risk weather season. This includes a mix of water bombing, air supervision and air intelligence gathering aircraft, which can be moved quickly, according to risk.
Returning this year are two Large Air Tankers, which can operate from smaller regional airports as they require less room for take-off and landing, making them more agile to move around the state. Two Aircranes are also contracted to join the fleet once their service period in North America concludes.
The aerial firefighting fleet will support the efforts of thousands of dedicated emergency services personnel from across CFA, Forest Fire Management Victoria, Fire Rescue Victoria, VICSES and other agencies and a firefighting fleet of trucks, heavy machinery and plant equipment.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility and it’s important for communities to take action and understand their local risks.
Having a fire plan with your family and reducing the vegetation around your home by mowing lawns and clearing gutters are some of the most important things you can do to prepare for the higher risk weather season.
Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings and warnings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website. Make a fire plan at fireplanner.vic.gov.au.
The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer is developed by the AFAC, the National Council for fire and emergency services, and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers. The Outlook gives a national picture of the likelihood of fires over the summer months.
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner, Rick Nugent
“We’ve already had a taste of what we might see over summer, with fast running fires in the west and southwest of our state during spring.
“Victoria remains well prepared for the risks of fires, with critical support from our aerial firefighting fleet and thousands of dedicated emergency services personnel and now it’s time for the community to start preparing.
“Preparing for the higher risk weather season is a shared responsibility, and we’re asking the community to take action now to stay safe.
“It’s critical that you understand your fire risk – whether you’re at home, at work or on holiday. Know where you can go to receive emergency information and never rely on just one source.”
Quotes attributable to Country Fire Authority Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan
“While recent fires have previewed what is expected this fire season, rest assured, our crews are ready to protect Victorians and their properties.
“Our volunteers continue to work closely alongside our interagency partners and community members on the ground to prepare for the proposed conditions and now heightened fire risk that has extended to large parts of the state.
“Now is the time for Victorians to understand their local risks, continue preparing their properties diligently, and to plan ahead with their families by reviewing their Bushfire Survival Plan.”
Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer, Chris Hardman
“Forest Fire Management Victoria works year-round with our agency partners to manage the risk of bushfires.
“Recent fires and hot, dry weather conditions in Victoria are a clear warning about the risks this summer.
“FFMVic has more than 1800 frontline staff ready to respond and protect our communities – from fire lookout tower observers detecting fires as soon as possible and rappel crews responding to keep remote bushfires small to our permanent and seasonal firefighters working hard in challenging terrain to contain any bushfires that may start.
“We of course want Victorians and visitors to our state to enjoy their summer but encourage them to do so safely and with awareness of the season and risks.
“If you choose to get out into our beautiful parks and forests, please be mindful of any warnings, listen to official advice, and never leave a campfire unattended.”
Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Commissioner, Gavin Freeman
“Fire Rescue Victoria stands ready to support our colleagues across the emergency services sector.
“Victorians, regardless of where they live, can rely on interagency cooperation to deliver the best fire and emergency service response.
“I urge anyone living in or visiting regional and remote areas to regularly monitor weather conditions and have a plan for high-risk days."
Quotes attributable to Victoria State Emergency Service, Deputy Chief Officer David Baker
“Our VICSES volunteers remain prepared to respond this higher risk season and we ask Victorian communities to do the same. In summer we often continue to see and experience adverse weather conditions and the best defence against storms and severe weather is early preparation, such as having an emergency plan in place, and knowing where to go for information.
“We’re asking communities to know your local risk – you can do this by checking your Local Flood Guide. Additionally, please ensure you download the VicEmergency app to stay up to date with emergency advice and messaging, and if you come across flood water on the road, never drive through it.”
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emergency Management Victoria via the State Control Centre: 1300 287 289 or media@emv.vic.gov.au
