General News
16 December, 2024
Total Fire Ban declared for Wimmera and Mallee
A Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared for the Wimmera, Mallee, Northern Country, North Central, South West, Central and West and South Gippsland districts today with temperatures expected to reach between 42 to 47 degrees in the North and 33 to 42 degrees in the South.
A Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared for the Wimmera, Mallee, Northern Country, North Central, South West, Central and West and South Gippsland districts today with temperatures expected to reach between 42 to 47 degrees in the North and 33 to 42 degrees in the South.
A Total Fire Ban means no fires can be lit, or be allowed to remain alight, in the open air from 12:01am until 11:59pm.
“Total Fire Bans are declared to reduce the risk of fires starting and spreading in dangerous weather conditions,” CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said.
Hot, dry and windy conditions across the state has also triggered an Extreme Fire Danger Rating.
On an Extreme Fire Danger day, fires will spread quickly and be extremely dangerous so it's important to understand your local risks and know what to do if a fire starts.
“If you live in a fire-prone area, now is the time to review your fire plan and make sure you are prepared to leave early if needed. Don’t wait until it’s too late to act," Mr Heffernan said.
Don’t wait for an official warning before you leave – emergencies can start quickly and threaten lives and homes within minutes.
Anyone who has lit a campfire in a park or forest in recent days should make sure it is completely extinguished. Use water, not soil, to put out your fire. If it is cool to touch, it’s safe to leave.
Victorians are reminded that machinery can start grassfires. Where harvesting can be put on hold, it is encouraged to restrict harvesting activities during increased fire danger weather.
To keep you and your family safe during hot weather, be sure to drink plenty of water, keep cool using a fan, air conditioner or cold shower, wear light and loose clothing and cancel or reschedule activities for a cooler time of the day.
It’s also important to check in with family, friends and neighbours.
Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources including:
· VicEmergency app or website: www.emergency.vic.gov.au
· Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
· Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
· Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X