Hume houses in line of fire

MORE than 200 Hume streets are at risk of urban bushfire this fire season, according to the Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board.

A detailed risk assessment of urban areas within the Metropolitan Fire District identified 36,000 homes at heightened risk from fire because of their proximity to parks or open land.

Chief fire officer Shane Wright said homes or businesses backing on to bush, grassland, reserves, paddocks and parks were most at risk.

“Everyone’s circumstances will differ but they should all make preparations to manage their own individual fire risk,” he said.

Assistant chief fire officer Rob Taylor said Broadmeadows was an area with a significant amount of grass exposure.

“What we’ve listed here are streets with at least one side exposed to significant grass,” Mr Taylor said.

He said there had been grass fires that have affected businesses in the past.

“Whether you’re a house or a factory, the key lesson is to keep the rubbish down.”

Residents and businesses in the streets listed will receive a brochure about how to prepare their property.

Mr Taylor said Hume was one of three areas at greatest risk of grassfire.

“If the weather turns hot, dry and windy that creates high risk. Follow the directions of the mailout and you’ll put yourself in the best position.”

The MFB also released a list of tasks for people to undertake for the fire season.

Details: mfb.vic.gov.au