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AS a late harvest coincides with the onset of warm conditions and the start of the fire season, farmers have been urged to take all precautions to prevent fire.
Victoria’s western region has been warned to expect a significant grassfire risk over the coming summer months. As the spring growth, promoted by high rainfall, dries out, it will create high fuel loads across the state.
Despite a mild start to the season, above average temperatures are expected to roll in throughout December and January.
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“Above average spring rainfall combined with warmer temperatures has produced ideal growing conditions for crops and pasture,’’ Emergency Management Commissioner Craig Lapsley said.
“There is considerable grass growth across the state and as this dries out with the warmer weather, it will become very flammable.
“Preparation is the key, particularly for people living in interface areas. Grass fires can start without warning and can spread quickly. Don’t get caught out.”
To lower the risk of a fire breaking out in the Wimmera, the Country Fire Authority depends on producers taking the appropriate action and stopping work when conditions become too hot and windy.
People involved in the harvest are recommended to stay on top of changing weather conditions and fire threat levels by making use of the VicEmergency app, which has recently been improved to make it faster and more responsive.
Changes include the four-day Fire Danger Rating forecast, which has been added to the map screen. Notifications for fire, flood and weather are also now automatically turned on for each watch zone.
The Victorian Farmers Federation has developed guidelines for producers on what precautions to take, including the provision of a fully operational farm fire-fighting unit with 250 litres of water on hand within the paddock.
It is also recommended that operators regularly remove any build-up from their machines during the harvesting process.
For the entire guidelines, visit the Victorian Farmers Federation website at http://www.vff.org.au.
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