By Eleanor Wilson
Local fire brigades have issued a reminder for residents to be aware when using farm machinery during fire season, after a grass and scrub fire in Cardinia on Wednesday 25 January.
Units from Clyde, Tooradin and Devon Meadows CFA were called to a private property in Cardinia around 1:30pm on Wednesday 25 January, where a grass and scrub fire was spreading.
The fire was brought under control within about 30 minutes with no one injured and no damage to property, according to a Facebook post by Devon Meadows CFA.
The fire is understood to have been started by farm machinery, sparking brigades to issue a reminder to community members to act with caution during fire season.
“If you’re using farm machinery or vehicles, ensure it is free from any faults and mechanical defects, fitted with an approved spark arrestor and carrying a water fire extinguisher,” the post read.
“Be aware of hot exhaust pipes, mufflers can start grassfires. The accumulation of grass around the underbody of vehicles can create a fire risk.“
The most common cause of grass and scrub fires caused by machinery is material collecting on hot engine components such as the manifold, exhaust and turbocharger, according to the CFA.
“The key to avoiding grass fires caused by machinery is diligence in clean-down and inspection.”
The reminder came a few days ahead on the imposition of a Fire Danger Period in Casey and Cardinia on Monday 30 January.
The period places a series of restrictions on fire activities in the community, with written permits required to burn off grass, undergrowth, weeds or other vegetation.
Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $21,800 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
Barbecues and fires for cooking and warmth do not require a permit, but must be lit in properly constructed fireplaces.
For more information, head to cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/total-fire-bans-fire-danger-ratings/can-i-or-cant-i
