Summer is fast-approaching and people across the Shire are getting their properties fire ready and practicing their fire plans with their families.
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) usually runs from November to May each year and Corangamite Shire Council Municipal Emergency Management Officer Janne Bowen encouraged residents to clear around their properties before summer arrives.
"The fire season is less than two months away so it's a good time to start preparing now instead of leaving it until the last minute," Ms Bowen said.
"Tidying up around your yard, especially in gutters and around your house, can help safeguard your family and neighbours against bushfires.
"Any burnable material, such as grass more than 10 cm long, will need to be cut, and fallen branches, dead vegetation and items such as newspapers may need to be removed," spokesperson said.
"If you have one, clear your firebreak, and move firewood away from your home."
Council Fire Prevention Officers are inspecting properties around the Shire to identify any dangerous fuel levels that need to be cleaned up.
Fire prevention notices will be issued to property owners if the fire prevention officer determines that anything on their land would constitute a danger to life or property in the event of a fire.
Ms Bowen said if residents were issued with a fire prevention notice, the owner of the land must comply with the notice by the date identified or face fine of more than $1650, as set by the State Government.
"This date will be set for the start of December, so we encourage the community to contact Council if properties have not been cut and fire fuels reduced after that time."
