With hot temperatures across the state last weekend, we are reminding the community that the summer fire season is just around the corner.

We live in one of the most fire-prone regions in the world and it only takes weeks or even days of hot, dry and windy weather to create dangerous fire conditions.

Favourable growing conditions throughout the area have promoted an above-average grassfire risk this fire season.

Fire Danger Periods had already been introduced in some areas, including parts of Colac and the surrounding area, and in Mildura. FDPs for other parts of the state would continue to be declared, and we urge residents to have a detailed and well-practiced Bushfire Survival Plan.

Now is the time to protect your home and property by slashing, mowing, grazing, spraying and using herbicide, and creating fuel breaks by removing all fuel (vegetation) down to the soil. Clean out the gutters as I did last weekend.

To avoid brigades being called out unnecessarily by a neighbour or passer by, tell your neighbours when you plan to burn off and register the burn with the CFA on 1800 668 511 and get a Council permit where necessary.

Call into the Fire Station on November 20 between 11:00am and 3:00 pm for a sausage and a chat.