Prepare now for fire season

Published on 22 October 2020

Fire Action Week is underway and Council is urging those with properties in Frankston City to plan and prepare now for the fire season.

As well as conducting fuel reduction measures such as clearing and burning off, preparing for fire season includes making plans for hot, dry, windy days and fire events.

Frankston City Council CEO, Phil Cantillon, said sharing these plans was key to making sure everyone was on the same page before the hot weather kicks in.

“Talk to your family members and neighbours about the risks in your area, as well as what you will do and where you will go in the event of a fire or high risk day.”

Mr Cantillon said Council was preparing public areas for the fire season in a COVID-safe way and encouraged those with properties in Frankston City to do the same.

“October is the best time to prepare. Don’t leave it too late to put fire safety measures in place.”

From midnight tonight (21 October 2020) COVID-19 restrictions will allow residents of metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria (with written permission from Council) to travel to Frankston City to prepare properties for fire and flood.

To receive a permit, property owners will be required to complete an application form so officers can deem whether it is necessary for them to travel to Frankston City to undertake these works. Considerations will include whether the property is located in a high bushfire or flood risk area.

If fire season preparation is required, Council will issue a permit, accompanied by letters from the Victorian Chief Health Officer and Police Commissioner, allowing the applicant to travel beyond 25 kilometres from their primary place of residence and outlining the COVID-19 restrictions they must adhere to.

“We understand that residents of other Council areas are wishing to prepare their Frankston City properties for the fire season and we are working with the State Government to facilitate this in a COVID-safe way,” Mr Cantillon said. He added that Council would also issue Fire Prevention Notices to the owners of properties requiring urgent action.

“Owners issued with a Fire Prevention Notice are legally required to clean up their property regardless of whether they live more than 25 kilometres away.”

Fire Action Week runs until 25 October 2020, with local fire brigades hosting fire safety essentials online training to help residents understand and prepare for fire. More information is available here.

To stay up-to-date with emergency warnings tune into emergency broadcasters including ABC Radio Melbourne, phone the VicEmergency hotline on 1300 226 226, visit the VicEmergency website or download the app.