Local firefighters have urged locals to take into account weather conditions before starting a burn-off, after a blaze got out of control in Greater Geelong.
Emergency services were called to Constantine Drive, Lara around 12:45pm on Monday, after a caller to Triple Zero reported an out-of-control burn-off.
FRV and CFA crews responded, arriving within five minutes to discover a small grass and scrub fire.
They tackled the blaze, with the scene deemed Under Control at 1:05pm.
Police were also on scene.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said they’ve been called to more than 40 grassfires since midnight, declaring Monday and Tuesday dangerous for burn-offs.
Firefighters have responded to multiple escaped burn-offs today, many which have reignited from burn-offs over the weekend,” Jason said.
“We’re asking the community to be aware of your local conditions and stop burning off activities until safe to do so.
“We know burn-offs can flare-up several days afterwards, so it is important residents are consistently monitoring wind conditions before and after their burning day, while also notifying their neighbours to be mindful of smoke.
“If you light a fire to burn-off, you own it. Please don’t leave your burn-off unattended and always make sure it is extinguished properly with water.
“Victorians should be registering their burn-offs online through the Fire Permits Victoria website to help agencies manage fire risk effectively.”
