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Wyndham council has encouraged residents to ensure they follow local laws around fire safety this winter.
Mayor Josh Gilligan said the number of illegal burns reported to council this year had doubled, compared to the same time last year.
“It is illegal to burn off in any residential area, so any outdoor fire in urban areas needs to be confined to a small monitored fire pit or a barbecue – essentially it can only be for the purpose of cooking or warmth,” Cr Gilligan said.
“Also, the burning of waste can be harmful to both your health and the environment, due to the toxic fumes and pollution released by plastics, coated papers and other material.”
Cr Gilligan said it was important the right type of wood was used.
“When using your indoor wood heater make sure you select dry and untreated wood, so it does not cause pollution or damage the health of others around you,” he said.
“You must also maintain your wood heater by ensuring it is inspected and cleaned regularly.
“As wood heaters and open fires have a significant impact on air quality and contribute to pollution, please consider minimising the use of wood fire heaters unless necessary.”
Wyndham residents can get rubbish removed from their property by booking a hard waste collection with the council.
Every resident, whether they are a renter or a homeowner, is entitled to three free hard and green waste collections per year. To book visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/bookhardwaste
The Refuse Disposal Facility (municipal tip), on 470 Wests Road, Werribee is also open to public and commercial operators from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.
A range of items can be dropped off there for free including batteries, cardboard, electrical waste, paint and excess recyclables. Discounts apply for the disposal of green waste material.
