The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will officially end at 1am on Monday, April 7 in the Wellington Shire and other parts of south east Gippsland.

The FDP will also end in the Baw Baw Shire Council, South Gippsland Shire Council, and Latrobe City Council.

The easing of restrictions comes as conditions have significantly improved over the past fortnight in the region, with two substantial rainfall events occurring and more expected.

CFA Deputy Chief Officer, South East Region, Trevor Owen said the shift in weather has brought welcome relief.

“We’re now seeing better moisture levels overnight, which is helping to reduce fire risk,” Mr Owen said.

Despite the change, residents are advised to remain cautious if burning off around properties.

“Autumn is a great time for fuel management, and very shortly we’ll see both CFA planned burns and private burn-offs happening across the region,” he said.

“However, its important people burn off responsibly. We’ve still got dry fuels in some areas, and combined with gusty winds, fire can spread quickly if not managed properly.

“Any burning off activity must always have someone in attendance, with enough water and resources to monitor, contain and extinguish the burn safely and effectively.”

As restrictions lift, CFA is also reminding landowners to register any burn-offs they undertake via the Fire Permits Victoria website.

“By registering your burn, we can prevent false alarms and focus our efforts where they’re really needed,” Mr Owen said.

Where possible, landowners should also notify neighbours and those nearby who may be sensitive to smoke.

Anyone travelling outside the region is reminded to stay up to date with local fire restrictions, as some parts of Victoria remain in the FDP.

Burn-off safety checklist :

  • Check fire restrictions in your area and always register your burn at www.firepermits.vic.gov.au 
  • Check and monitor weather conditions – particularly wind.
  • To avoid unnecessary calls to emergency services, notify your neighbours beforehand.
  • Leave a three-metre fire break, free from flammable materials around the burn.
  • Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading.
  • Never leave a private burn-off unattended – stay for its entire duration.
  • If your private burn-off gets out of control, call ‘000’ immediately.
  • Tips for looking after your health when there is smoke can be found on EPA’s website.