CFA is urging all Victorians to keep fire safety top of mind as we head into the Australia Day long weekend.
CFA is urging all Victorians to keep fire safety top of mind as we head into the Australia Day long weekend.
The risk of fire doesn’t stop over the long weekend, so whether you’re packing up the car for a camping trip with the family or cleaning up the backyard for a barbecue with friends, be prepared and stay aware of potential fires and hazards.
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington urged all Victorians to check weather and fire conditions as part of their long weekend preparations.
"Australia day is forecast to be dry and hot across Victoria and this is expected to generally remain the case throughout the weekend.
“With that in mind, I would strongly urge people to check the Fire Danger Rating for their area and stay informed of any emergency warnings, information and potential Total Fire Ban Days.
“If you’re firing up the barbecue with friends this weekend, make sure that your barbecue and hose are in good condition and check connections and fittings are tight.
“Campers are also encouraged to check weather and fire conditions before leaving home and regularly check for warnings on the journey, as conditions can change rapidly.
“I recently visited the Alfred Hospital Burns Unit and while I was greatly impressed by the work carried out by the amazing and dedicated staff, I was also struck by how many of the acute burns incidents could have been avoided by doing the right thing.
“Do not underestimate the dangers of camp fires and fire pits. Too often our firefighters are called to incidents were people have been seriously injured due to getting too close to or falling into campfires and fire pits.
“Even once extinguished campfires and fire pits can be incredibly hot and cause serious burns. Please ensure you extinguish these fires properly, keep a safe distance and always watch children around an open flame.
“CFA would like to ensure that Victorians celebrate not only over the Australia Day long weekend but also throughout the summer season, safely.
Australia Day long weekend checklist:
• If you’re firing up the barbecue, make sure the barbecue is in good condition, including the hose; • Check your barbecue’s connections are tight and O rings are in good condition;
• If you’re travelling, check the weather and fire conditions before you leave and regularly on your journey;
• The use of illegal fireworks and fire crackers can cause large grassfires and tie up valuable emergency services resources and;
• Stay informed of emergency warnings, weather and fire conditions via www.emergency.vic.gov.au, download the VicEmergency app or follow VicEmergency on Twitter (#vicfires) or Facebook.
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