THE fire danger period has officially come to an end, but that doesn't mean it's all in for burns across Ballarat.
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Fire restrictions officially ended this morning at 1am with the final district 7, 15 and 22, taking in Geelong, Ballarat and Shepparton and their neighbouring municipalities the last areas across the state to lift restrictions.
Acting Chief Officer Gavin Freeman reminded residents that while the fire danger period was now over, it was still important that residents check the local conditions on the day of any burn-off they were considering undertaking.
"Conditions can change quickly and fires can get out of control within minutes in dry and windy conditions," he said.
"The effects of an out-of-control fire can be devastating and we want everyone to exercise extreme caution."
It may take some time before fires are ready to burn however, after more than 100mm of rain fell across Ballarat in the first 10 days of the month
Mr Freeman said people wishing to burn off need to register their burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au
"It reduces the chances of CFA brigades being called out unnecessarily if a member of the public calls about smoke or a fire in the area," he said.
He added that people should never leave a burn-off unattended as it's the resident's responsibility to ensure that it does not get out of control.
"If a burn off does get out of control, call '000' immediately. People should have a fire plan and prepare for the event of fire, and never be complacent," he said.
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