As summer inches closer, fire restrictions are now in force across the Geelong and Surf Coast regions.
They came into force in the early hours of Monday, as the CFA braces for what could be a bad fire season.
While the spring rain has been welcomed, the fire authority says it will help grass grow, which will dry out as the weather warms up with stronger winds.
CFA Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer for District 7, Wayne Aylmer, said any fires in the open would now need a permit.
“It’s just a way we manage how fires are used in the community when the season starts to get warmer and drier,” he said.
Residents are still being encouraged to ensure they have cleaned up around their homes and properties.
Mr Aylmer said locals had a role to play in reducing the risk of fire this season.
“We have already responded to a number of escaped burn-offs this Spring, so please ensure you have enough water and resources on hand to extinguish it safely,” he said.
“There are concerns about the dryness within nearby bushland areas, particularly more so than previous years, and grassfires that ignite will travel quickly in the forecasted conditions.”
More information can be found on the CFA website.
