A Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared for tomorrow, Monday 9 December, for the Wimmera, Mallee and Northern Country. This is the first TFB declared since the official start of summer.
It means that no fires can be lit in the open air or be allowed to remain alight in the open air, including campfires and burn offs, between midnight tonight and 11.59pm tomorrow.
There are also a number of municipalities across the state with fire restrictions in place and these can be sourced from the Country Fire Authority website.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a very hot day with temperatures reaching in the 40s in the north of the state.
The Fire Danger Rating is Extreme in the Mallee, Severe in the Wimmera and Northern Country, and Very High across the rest of the state.
Victoria’s Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said that while Victoria’s fire agencies and emergency managers were on alert and prepared for the conditions, the community cannot be complacent and should prepare for tomorrow to help prevent fires.
“Despite experiencing a mild start to summer, hot, dry and windy conditions are expected tomorrow, with the potential for increased fire activity,” he said.
“East Gippsland has already experienced several bushfires, which continue to burn and more than 32,400ha currently on fire. Yet it’s important for all Victorians to be aware that fires can happen anywhere and without warning.”
“We’ve been ensuring fire agency crews are well prepared, and it’s also extremely important that the community is ready, not only for tomorrow, but for the months to come”.
Mr Crisp said Victorians should take action to protect themselves from the heat tomorrow and look after those most at risk.
“This includes your neighbours living alone, the elderly, the young, people with medical conditions and don’t forget your pets.”
“Stay aware of your surroundings and if you’re travelling or in unfamiliar places, make sure you are aware of the local risk.
Know how to stay informed and never rely on one source for emergency information.”
Always use multiple sources to stay informed during an emergency:
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
- VicEmergency Hotline – freecall 1800 226 226.
- VicEmergency app. Facebook or Twitter (#vicfires).
- Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
