Hefty penalties loom for escaped burn-offs

The CFA is urging residents to take extra precautions while burning-off ahead of the Fire Danger Period (FDP) to avoid penalties and unnecessary use of emergency services resources.
Last year, the CFA responded to 819 callouts for escaped burn-offs between January and December, with 48 per cent (396 incidents) occurring in September, October, and November.
The concerning trend appears to be repeating this year, with CFA responding to 37 incidents between September 1 and 20.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said this number was far too high and emphasised the widespread impact escaped burn-offs had.
"We are aiming for a significant reduction in escaped burn-off incidents this season as we head towards the FDP.
"Last year's numbers, especially during spring, placed an unnecessary strain on CFA crews, neighbouring properties, and the community.
"Letting a burn-off escape during the FDP can result in severe penalties, including heavy fines and liability for damages caused," Mr Heffernan said.
Under the CFA Act, penalties for allowing a burn-off to escape during a declared FDP can include fines up to $23,710, 12 months imprisonment, or both. The penalty is doubled if an escape occurs on a total fire ban day.
Before burning off, residents should ensure: 
You're following regulations or laws by CFA and local council;
You notify your neighbours if your activity will generate fire and smoke;
Check the weather forecast for the day of the activity and a few days afterwards;
Establish a gap in vegetation or fire break with no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material;
You notify Triple Zero Victoria. 
Residents should register a planned burn online through the Fire Permits Victoria website. This can be done up to two hours before a burn-off begins.
If you wish to start your burn-off immediately, you may register your burn-off by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.