THE Fire Danger Period (FDP) for Mornington Peninsula Shire will begin at 1am on Monday 9 December. Residents are encouraged to use the time before the FDP to prepare their properties. This includes cleaning up dry grass, leaves, and other flammable materials, as well as completing safe private burn-offs while they are still permitted.
CFA Deputy Chief Officer Trevor Owen (Southeast) stressed the importance of taking early action as conditions continue to dry across the region. “Now is the time for residents to act by clearing around their homes and ensuring any private burn-offs are completed safely before restrictions come into effect,” Owen said. “Even though grasslands might still look green in some areas, the ground underneath is much drier than in previous years, which makes fires more likely to spread. “After much consultation, there was strong support for introducing the fire danger period now to keep our communities as safe as possible.”
Trevor also highlighted the shared responsibility in fire prevention. “CFA members are ready to respond and support communities as we head into another bushfire season, but fire prevention is a shared responsibility. “Using common sense and taking proactive steps, like preparing your property and following fire restrictions, is key to reducing the risk of fires.
Those conducting burn-offs must notify authorities online at the Fire Permits Victoria website (www.firepermits.vic.gov.au), or by calling Tripe Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511. By registering your burn-off online, you allow emergency call takers to allocate more of their time taking calls from people who need emergency assistance immediately.
First published in the Mornington News – 3 December 2024
