Victoria and Utah fire agencies push new safety measures

In Victoria, Australia, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) is urging landowners to register any burn‑offs on the Fire Permits Victoria website. Acting chief officer Garry Cook warned that “with unusually warm weather this autumn people should take care” and highlighted the need to monitor wind conditions, keep fires attended and fully extinguish them. The CFA also advises creating a fire break of at least three metres and notifying neighbours.

In Sandy, Utah, the local fire department is preparing residents for a potentially volatile wildfire season. Deputy Chief Chris Aston described the “Ready, Set, Go!” program that teaches homeowners how to clear fuel and reduce risk. Starting in January 2027, a state‑mandated wildfire assessment fee of $20‑$100 per year will apply to up to 60,000 high‑risk homes, with lower fees for properties that complete mitigation work. The program aims to help homeowners retain insurance, which many, like Sandy resident Grant, have struggled to obtain.

Both regions emphasize proactive mitigation, public outreach and regulatory steps to lower fire hazards and protect communities.