Spring property inspections underway
Published on 12 September 2016
Recent warm weather is a reminder that summer is on the way and with that comes the threat of fire.
In preparation for fire season, Mildura Rural City Council is beginning the annual review of potential fire hazards across the municipality and are reminding property owners of their responsibility to keep homes and yards in a tidy condition.
Community Development and Safety Councillor Ali Cupper said an early clean-up will ensure that our communities are fire ready by summer.
“Council’s Parks and Gardens staff are busy clearing weeds and debris on public land and it’s the perfect time for residents to begin tidying up backyards, vacant land and fruit blocks in preparation for the upcoming fire season,” Cr Cupper said.
“People need to think about removing any excess long grass, weeds or rubbish which could add fuel to a fire.”
Vacant lots of land and non-productive irrigation blocks are some of the most problematic properties locally, with a large number of complaints coming from neighbours concerned about the lack of maintenance.
“Our Local Laws staff constantly check people are doing the right thing in terms of keeping yards tidy but as the weather warms up it becomes a greater focus,” said Cr Cupper.
“We urge all landowners to take the steps necessary to ensure their properties are adequately maintained, with the Fire Danger Period traditionally starting around the end of October each year.”
Council works with other agencies such as the Country Fire Authority to monitor fire risk and the Local Government and CFA Acts clearly stipulate landowners must not allow land to become unsightly or a potential fire hazard.
“Fire prevention and safety is everyone’s responsibility. Council works with the CFA and other local agencies to educate the community on how best to prevent, prepare for and respond to fires. This includes fire management planning, inspecting properties for fire hazards and issuing permits to burn.”
If Council does notice a potential fire risk with a property, the land owner will be issued with a notice and given time to rectify the problem. Property owners can be fined and are responsible for any cleanup costs if they do not comply with a notice.
While inspections have begun, people with concerns about a property in their neighbourhood can contact Council directly on 5018 8100.
Further information about fire permits, fire safety and keeping your property tidy is available on our webpage www.mildura.vic.gov.au/Fire-Safety
ENDS
Media enquiries
Angela Umback
p) (03) 5018 8689
e) angela.umback@mildura.vic.gov.au