Victorians need to prepare for extended heat and increased fire danger this week. CFA has declared a Total Fire Ban (TFB) for tomorrow, Tuesday 15 January for the whole State of Victoria.

No fire can be lit in the open air or be allowed to remain alight in the open air between 00:01AM and 11.59PM tomorrow.



The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting three consecutive days with hot to very hot temperatures in most areas of the state and mid-40s in the north.

On Tuesday the fire danger is elevated with Extreme Fire Danger in the Wimmera, Severe forecast for the Mallee, Northern Country and North Central and Very High across the rest of the state.

Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said planning and preparing ahead of hot days was important for everyone.

“There is significant risk of fire in all regions and we ask that people increase their fire preparedness to ensure safer fire outcomes.

“We’re still in the summer holiday period before school returns, with a large number of people camping and visiting national parks. It is important everyone stays vigilant and don’t light camp fires.

Heat Health Alerts have been issued in Mallee, North Central, Northern Country and North East starting on Monday and going through to Wednesday.

“If you’re going to the Australian Open, or attending any outdoor events, plan ahead. If you must go out in the heat, wear a hat and sunscreen and always take a bottle of water with you,” he said.

“Drink plenty of water and check in on others. Look after those most at risk in the heat – your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don’t forget your pets.

Mr Crisp said the increased fire danger on Tuesday was due to very hot temperatures and light winds.

“The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a very hot dry air mass with light winds and there won’t be much relief from the heat overnight on Tuesday, meaning if we have fires in the landscape they could challenge firefighters,” he said.

“Stay aware of your surroundings and if you’re travelling or in unfamiliar places, make sure you are aware of the local risk. Know how to stay informed and never rely on one source for emergency information.”

Victorians can get emergency information from a number of sources including the VicEmergency app, www.emergency.vic.gov.au, tuning in to ABC radio or other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations or Sky TV or by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 and following VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter.

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