Swan Hill Fire Brigade captain Dennis Turner has urged residents to take “extreme” caution during a burn-off when the Fire Danger Period (FDP) ends on Monday.
Mr Turner said predictions of an intense fire season were accurate, with volunteer firefighters kept busy fighting two major fires in Swan Hill and Ultima late last year.
“At our department meeting in October last year, we all said this would be a big year in the north west region,” he said.
“The northern end of the state has been well over-represented in fires this year.
“The fire we had between Christmas and New Year at Ultima we believe was still the largest fire in the state this summer.”
Mr Turner urged people in the Swan Hill municipality to be cautious when burning off.
“Put fire breaks in place and notify your neighbours,” he urged.
“If possible, register your burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority.
“Summer is still fresh in people’s minds so people will dial authorities, but registering the burn-off will save some call outs for us.”
To read more of this story, grab a copy of Friday’s Guardian (March 31).
