Understanding fire risk on the fringe

Many suburbs in the City of Whittlesea are surrounded by grassland, which can mean an increased fire risk over summer.

If you live in urban fringe areas like Wollert, Mernda, Doreen and Donnybrook, you need to make sure you understand your fire risk and what to do if a grassfire breaks out in your area.

Watch the warnings 

• There are new Fire Danger Rating levels: Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic. The higher the rating, the more dangerous the conditions.
• If the rating is Extreme or Catastrophic, leaving your home before a fire has started is the safest option.
• Think about where you’ll go and what you’ll do with pets ahead of time.
• Visit emergency.vic.gov.au or download the app for emergency alerts.

Minimise the risks

• Total fire bans are declared on days when there is a high danger of a fire spreading.
• On these days there are strict rules about what you can and can’t do.
• Common household items, such as barbecues, power tools and lawnmowers can cause sparks that might start a fire.
• Some restrictions apply during the fire danger period.

If a grassfire starts

• Don’t wait for an official to tell you to leave your home. If your home is next to grassland, walk two streets back away from the fire.
• If your home is two or more streets away from grassland, it is safest to stay where you are once a fire has started. Grassfires don’t usually spread this far into built-up areas.
• Don’t drive once a fire has started. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Smoke also makes it hard to see, causing accidents.

Visit our website to learn more about preparing for emergencies. You can also learn more about fire danger ratings and restrictions at www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions

You can also find information translated into your language on the CFA website: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/about-us/publications/other-languages-lote