HEAT is not the only thing to be aware of – as fire season means local council is out in force to ensure landholders are complying with fire safety measures during the summer.

Glenelg Shire Council is carrying out inspections of properties within the shire area throughout the Fire Danger Period - which has already been in force for two weeks - and will continue through to the end of April.

The inspections will identify potential fire hazards and, if necessary, will result in the issuing of a fire prevention notice to warn landholders to complete any stated works by a specified date.

Council said more than 200 notices had already been issued in the Glenelg Shire so far.

Non-compliance with a fire prevention notice may result in an infringement and a fine of $1849 and a contractor may be engaged to carry out works at the landholder’s expense.

People who receive a notice and do not understand it or have any questions can contact the Municipal Fire Prevention Officer on 5522 2208, but must do so before the specified completion date.

Fire prevention actions generally suggested by the council include cutting or mowing grass higher than 10 centimetres, cleaning out gutters and storing firewood away from the house.

More information is available on the Glenelg Shire website at www.glenelg.vic.gov.au.