Burn-offs getting out of control

Recent bushfires in parts of Gippsland have highlighted the dangers of failing to properly manage burn-offs ahead of the summer fire risk period.
Country Fire Authority chief officer Jason Heffernan said out of control burn-offs were the cause of some of the outbreaks and were a timely reminder of the dangers they could lead to.
They were among 115 call-outs to burn-offs that got out of control throughout Victoria last month.
He encouraged property owners to take advantage of the window of opportunity to clean up their properties but to burn-off safely and be well prepared before lighting.
Mr Heffernan said weather conditions would become warmer and drier with gusty winds adding to the challenge.
He said it was imperative that people planning burn-offs register them at the Fire Permits Victoria website or by 'phoning 1800 688 511 and check weather conditions on the day they plan to light and for subsequent days.
They should also postpone their burns if there are high fire risk conditions, establish at least a three-metre fire break around the pile to be burnt, advise neighbours, have enough water on hand to put out a fire and never leave it unattended.
Mr Heffernan stressed that fires can get out of control within minutes and can also flare up several days later unless fully extinguished.