MOST of the North East is expected to see an increased fire risk this summer, according to the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) outlook for the season.

The summer seasonal outlook said a lack of autumn-winter-spring rainfall affected much of the North East, with areas of the Indigo and Alpine shires expected to see a greater risk of fires.

“The current level of landscape dryness in these areas is strong enough that without significant rainfall, the flammability of fuels in forests, woodlands and heathlands will remain high with elevated potential for fires to start and spread,” the AFAC outlook read.

“Grasslands in these areas have superficial green-up, concealing underlying dryness.”

CFA is urging Victorians to take extra care this summer after vegetation fires jumped more than 50 per cent during the 2023/24 Fire Danger Period (FDP).

Between October 1, 2023, and April 1, 2024, CFA responded to 2145 vegetation fires including grass, bush and farmland across Victoria, compared to 1415 incidents in 2022/23.

This increase was accompanied by a 21 per cent rise in fire investigations, revealing that many incidents were caused by avoidable factors.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said reducing fire risk this season is critical given the summer outlook for a hot and dry season ahead.

“Many of the incidents we investigated - such as escaped burn-offs and machinery-related fires - were preventable with proper preparation and compliance with fire safety regulations,” he said.

“Fires on Total Fire Ban days remained a major concern during the last FDP, with 449 incidents recorded.”

Of the 449 incidents 21 per cent were caused by escaped burn-offs, nine per cent by campfires, eight per cent were deemed suspicious and five per cent were linked to machinery fires.

“Total Fire Ban days are declared to minimise the risk of fires starting and spreading, so it’s critical we see fewer avoidable incidents on these days,” Mr Heffernan said.

“Simple precautions like adhering to restrictions, planning ahead, and ensuring equipment is safe can help protect lives and property on these dangerous days.”

Mr Heffernan urged those facing increased fire risks this summer to plan ahead, maintain their properties and adhere to fire restrictions to help protect the community.

“Always check fire danger ratings, make sure your machinery is in good working condition, and clear vegetation around your property to reduce the risk of fire spreading,” he said.

“Together, we can make a real difference this season and help protect what matters most.”

For more information on fire safety and preparation, visit CFA’s website.