Fire warnings similar to the one listed below, are distributed to residents to assist the Mernda community and prevent needless damage and / or prosecution. Mernda CFA is committed to keeping the community safe and are taking the following steps to ensure residents and businesses adhere to fire restrictions:

- E-mailing fire restrictions and fire ban warnings  to registered members and residents.  - Mernda station is manned by volunteers on days of Total Fire Bans and days of extremely high fire danger. This minimizes response times and property damage. Volunteers are always welcome - Mernda CFA members are all highly trained volunteers and are skilled in all facets of rural fire fighting.

Want to know more about other fire restrictionsin the state of Victoria?

*** Tomorrow is a day of Total Fire Ban. *** 

General Advice on a Day of Total Fire Ban

Tools and Equipment

Tools and equipment that use a naked flame or generate sparks such as welding or grinding, must not be used in the open air.

If essential works are required to be done a special permit may be issued, after a thorough investigation of each application. Apply to your CFA Regional Office. See: Obtaining a Permit

All barbecues which use solid fuel such as wood, charcoal or briquettes are banned. This includes closed oven or kettle-type appliances.

Gas and electric barbecues provided in public reserves/campsites may be used providing:

• the barbecue is electric or gas fired
• the barbecue is fixed permanent structure
• the area for 3 metres around and above the barbeque is completely cleared of flammable material
• an adult is in attendance at all times
• a hose connected to a reticulated water supply or vessel containing at least 10 litres of water is on hand.

Portable gas and electric barbecues may be used provided:

• the barbecue is located within 20 metres of a permanent dwelling (mobile homes, caravans or tents are not classified as permanent dwellings)
• the area for 3 metres around and above the barbeque is completely cleared of flammable material
• an adult is in attendance at all times
• a hose connected to a reticulated water supply or vessel containing at least 10 litres of water is on hand.

Kind Regards

Mernda CFA Web Administrator

Above information has been obtained from the CFA website http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au