Update 9.20am:
The warning for the fire near Dereel and Mount Mercer has been downgraded to an Advice.
The fire has been contained, there is currently no threat to communities, but residents should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.
Smoke will be visible from nearby communities and roads.
Emergency services will remained onsite overnight with approximately 15 emergency and support vehicles continuing to work on the fire.
Update 5.24pm:
A watch and act is is now in place for Dereel, Mount Mercer and Grenville.
The medium sized bushfire now travelling slow in a north easterly direction as the wind has shifted to the south west.
This bushfire is currently not yet under control.
There are 50 fire crews battling the blaze, supported by multiple firefighting air craft.
UPDATE 4.15pm:
The grassfire is still not yet under control.
The fire started at midday. No homes are currently under threat.
At least 40 appliances plus multiple aircraft have been sent to the scene.
CFA will issue its next update by 5pm.
**
THIRTY- four fire crews are currently battling a small out of control grassfire near Dereel
There is a Watch and Act message currently issued by for Dereel.
The fast moving fire in the area of Tippetts Road.
Fire crews and aircraft are responding and will be active in the immediate area.
CFA have issued this warning
Don't wait, leaving now is the safest option - conditions may change and get worse very quickly. Emergency Services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.
Travel to;
- The home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights; smoke will make it difficult to see.
Safety Information:
Remember to take your prescriptions and medication, photo ID, bottles of water, your mobile phone and charger and consider what you will do with your pets.
If you have time, check your neighbours to see if they are monitoring conditions.
Contact a family member or friend to tell them what you plan to do.
Smoke Information:
Smoke can affect people's health.
People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant woman and older people are more sensitive to the effects of breathing smoke.
People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor.
If you are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, seek medical advice or call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing should call 000.
Stay Informed:
Via www.emergency.vic.gov.au
Tune to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations or Sky News TV.
Call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) on freecall 1800 240 667.
If you need medical advice for burns or smoke exposure call Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.
