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Are You Doing the Right Thing the Wrong Way?
Each year the Local Brigades attend a large number of fires that are started by using equipment the wrong way.
Whether working to create a defendable space around your home, just mowing the lawn, or pulling your dirt bike over to the side of the road you need to use all equipment responsibly. Lawnmowers, Whipper snippers, chainsaws, grinders, welders, tractors, and trimmers can all spark a wildfire. Do your part, the right way, to keep your community fire safe.
HERE IS HOW TO DO IT THE RIGHTWAY –
• Do your clearance before 10am - NOT IN THE HEAT OF THE DAY, OR WHEN THE WIND IS BLOWING! Be aware of the fire weather forecast and fire danger level.
• Lawn mowers are designed to mow lawns. NEVER use lawn mowers in dry vegetation.
• Remove rocks in the area before you begin operating any equipment. A grass or weed hidden rock is enough to start a fire when struck by a metal blade.
• Keep the exhaust system, spark arresters and mower in proper working order and free of carbon buildup. Use the recommended grade and mix of fuel.
• Keep the engine free of oil and dust, and keep the mower free of flammable materials. Remove any build up of dry grass etc.
• Have water on hand – hose from water supply or a water-type fire extinguisher ready to use.
• Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires you won't even see - until it's too late! Don't pull off into dry grass or brush.
• Keep a mobile phone nearby and call 000 IMMEDIATELY in the case of a fire.
Don’t forget to check if fire restrictions are in force prior to starting any burn-offs. If the “burn- off” is substantial please notify VICFIRE on 1800 668 511
