Fire Danger Period declared for Geelong, Surf Coast

As Geelong experiences a drier spring and gears up for another El Nino event, fire authorities have shed light on how residents can stay safe.

Fire authorities have revealed the best practice for Geelong and surrounds residents to stay safe this Fire Danger Period.

Fire authorities have shed light on how to stay safe during this Fire Danger Period, as it officially starts for the Geelong region next week.

The Country Fire Authority has declared the FDP for the South West region – including for the City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire, Borough of Queenscliffe, Golden Plains Shire, and Colac Otway Shire municipalities – will begin at 1am on November 20.

The FDP is declared when the CFA restricts the use of fire in the community, with the aim of helping to prevent fires from starting.

CFA deputy chief officer South West Adrian Gutsche said the FDP was being introduced due to drying conditions in the forest areas of the region.

“Communities may still see some green conditions across grassed areas however the underlying grass conditions are conducive to carrying fire,” he said.

“With the dryness of the forest, there is the risk that if fires start they will take hold in forested areas hence the implementation of the FDP.”

The El Nino weather pattern means Victorians can expect a hotter and drier summer, and communities should begin preparing their properties and creating a Bushfire Survival Plan.

Bureau of Meteorology senior climatologist Jonathan Pollock said the long-range forecast for summer, from December to February, showed high chances of above average maximum temperatures for Geelong and most of Victoria.

“Minimum temperatures are also likely to be warmer than average this summer,” he said.

“Typically, the combination of El Nino and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole means below average spring rainfall for Victoria, but their influence on rainfall reduces as we move into summer.”

Mr Pollock said spring so far was tracking drier than average for the Geelong region, including its driest September on record.

An FRV spokesman said there had already been an early start to the fire season, and said residents should take steps now they’re ready.

“We all need to be aware of fire risk, whether you live in an affected area or have plans to visit,” he said.

“Preparing is essential and will help ensure you can react without hesitation should the worst happen.

“There really isn’t a moment to waste when it comes to protecting you and your family.”

While CFA’s 52,000 members are poised to respond and support communities this bushfire season, they’re urging people to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.

For more information on Total Fire Bans and Fire Danger Ratings visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/total-fire-bans-fire-danger-ratings

Originally published as Fire Danger Period declared for Geelong, Surf Coast