November 12th, 2024Hepburn braces for fire danger period

Preparation is under way in the Hepburn Shire for the upcoming fire season and Fire Danger Period (FDP).

The Hepburn Shire Council is urging property owners to start preparing their properties for the upcoming bushfire season.

The FDP is likely to be declared early this month and the council says it’s continuing to reduce potential fire risks in the municipality.

The council, the Country Fire Authority (CFA), the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and Transport Victoria, will be working together to mitigate bushfire risks and ensure all preventative measures are taken to manage the safety of the region and community.

Works include the roadside slashing program, weed control and fire inspections.

The council is once again offering residents the opportunity to drop off their green waste for free at Transfer Stations during November.

Residents need to provide proof of residency and take care not to bring in noxious weeds as they cannot be accepted. 

Bradley Thomas, Hepburn Shire Council CEO, said that if the wider community can work together now to prepare for the warmer months, it will be doing its best to minimise the threat of bushfires in the region.  

“Our Shire is at high risk of bushfires and grassfires during summer, and we all can act now to prepare and help reduce the threat and impact of fire.

“By making the most of the free green waste drop-off offer, residents can prepare their properties now to ensure they are bushfire ready,” said Mr Thomas.

Residents are encouraged to reduce fire hazards by slashing grass, bracken and weeds, especially around buildings and fences. Undergrowth, fallen branches, and tree cuttings should be removed, and tree branches and shrubs should be pruned.